New Delhi: As India advances to the finals of the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy, all eyes are now on Salima Tete, the young dynamo from Jharkhand leading the Indian women’s hockey team.
On Tuesday, India defeated Japan 2-0 in the semifinals at the Rajgir Sports Complex in Bihar. The team faces China in the finals on 20 November.
Salima Tete’s journey so far—from the village of Barki Chhapar in Jharkhand’s Simdega district to the finals of a major international tournament—has been nothing short of a Bollywood script.
Tete (22) was born into a farming family. Her father, a farmer and ex-hockey player, introduced her to the sport, igniting her passion and transforming her life.
“I come from a small village, and the opportunity to lead Team India, for me, has been a significant achievement. My parents—who are farmers—have always supported me despite struggles,” Salima Tete said, speaking to ThePrint.
“I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason. I am deeply grateful for my parents’ unwavering support. It motivates me to do something meaningful for them.”
Narrating her journey to the international arena, Tete said, “In the early stages, I did not even own a hockey stick and had to practice with a wooden one. Over time, my father saved enough money to buy my first hockey stick.”
“My parents never shared their difficulties with me. My father always ensured he met my needs. I will never forget the sacrifices my parents made for me to pursue my dreams. It is because of their support that I am where I am today. Their sacrifices inspire me to work harder every day,” she further said.
Despite her family’s support, it was not easy for Tete to pursue hockey. Practising on uneven surfaces often left her bruised and intimidated, but she persisted.
“Initially, I feared getting hurt, but my passion for hockey pushed me forward. Playing on challenging surfaces built my resilience,” she said.
Also Read: Indian hockey lacked astro turf, good equipment in 1980s. It took 4 decades to make a comeback
‘Handling pressure is key’
Manoj Konbegi, Simdega Hockey Academy’s ex-president, noticed Tete’s talent first during a local tournament. Later, under the guidance of coach Pratima Barwa, her skills flourished.
“Many individuals have inspired and supported me throughout my journey—including Manoj Konbegi and coach Pratima Barwa. Their guidance has been invaluable in helping me progress in my career,” the captain of the women’s hockey team said.
Barwa, a former player whose career was cut short due to injury, played a pivotal role in shaping Tete’s career.
“During my time at the hostel, we did not even have access to a television. Coach Barwa consistently motivated me by reminding me of the potential she saw in me from the beginning. Her support was instrumental in shaping my approach to the game,” Tete said.
She made her national debut at just 16 in a game against Belarus in 2017 and quickly gained recognition for her skills. Then, in 2018, she led the junior women’s hockey team to a silver at the Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires.
Her stellar performances continued when she played a critical role in the Indian women’s hockey team’s historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020 and its third-place standing in the FIH Hockey Women’s Pro League (2021–22).
Tete, in 2020, became the second woman hockey player from Jharkhand after Nikki Pradhan to participate in the Olympics—a feat continues to inspire young athletes in her home state.
“The Tokyo Olympics provided me with an incredible opportunity, which, to this day, remains significant. The moment I began playing hockey, I envisioned myself becoming an Olympian. So, representing India at that level, not only at the Olympics but on the international stage, is a dream come true,” she shares.
Now leading the national team, Tete emphasises the need for patience and resilience, particularly, for younger players.
“I guide my juniors to play with freedom and patience. Handling pressure is key, and I always advise them to stay calm and tackle stress by sharing their challenges,” she said.
Even as Tete has ascended the ranks, she has leaned on the support of senior players and her coaches to navigate pressure.
“During my debut, senior players guided me whenever I felt overwhelmed. Their support taught me how to handle expectations,” she said.
In addition to her impressive tournament records, Tete was awarded the Hockey India Asunta Lakra Award for upcoming player of the year (women under 21) in 2021 and the prestigious Hockey India Balbir Singh Sr. Award for player in 2023.
Her leadership has been shining through in Team India’s success in the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy, with her ability to motivate the players receiving wide acclaim.
“I owe everything to my parents and my coaches. Their support has been my greatest strength. If you work hard with integrity, God will help you succeed,” she said.
Vanshika Jaiswal is an intern with ThePrint
(Edited by Madhurita Goswami)