Elena Norman steps down as Hockey India CEO after nearly 13 years
New Delhi, February 27: Elena Norman, the longstanding CEO of Hockey India, announced her resignation on Tuesday, concluding her nearly 13-year tenure. Under her leadership, both Indian men's and women's hockey teams achieved remarkable success, securing career-best world rankings and making history at the Tokyo Olympic Games. The Indian Men's team claimed a Bronze medal, ending a 41-year medal drought, while the women achieved an unprecedented fourth position.
Elena Norman's impactful leadership also saw Hockey India host two consecutive editions of the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup in 2018 and 2023, along with two FIH Junior Men's World Cups in 2016 and 2021. Additionally, the successful organisation of five editions of the Hockey India League, a franchise-based league, boosted the performance of the Indian men's hockey team by providing young talents the opportunity to compete alongside elite global hockey stars.
During her tenure, Hockey India hosted various international hockey events, including the FIH Champions Trophy, FIH World League Finals in 2015 and 2017, FIH Olympic Qualifiers in 2019 and 2024, and the FIH Hockey Pro League home games. Norman was instrumental in promoting women's hockey, ensuring equal facilities and recognition through cash awards for standout performances at the Hockey India Annual Awards.
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Elena Norman played a pivotal role in the success of the women's team, which qualified for the 2016 Rio Olympics, marking their first Olympic appearance in 36 years. The team secured successive Olympic berths in 2019 through the Olympic Qualifiers held in Bhubaneswar.
Norman's impact extended beyond the players, as she spearheaded the launch of the Hockey India Coaches Education Pathway, providing domestic coaches with global coaching standards. Her initiatives also focused on the development of Indian Technical and Match Officials.
In response to her resignation, Hockey India President Padma Shri Dilip Tirkey expressed gratitude for Norman's dedication and contributions. He acknowledged her pivotal role in elevating Hockey India and Indian hockey to their current commendable positions, wishing her success in her future endeavors.
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