The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, August 13 — In a sport many thought Indian women could neither play nor excel in, the Indian Women’s Ice Hockey team has shattered stereotypes and etched its name in history with a Bronze medal at the 2025 IIHF Women’s Asia Cup in Al Ain, UAE. Their journey — defined by grit, defiance, and resilience — has become a powerful symbol of hope for aspiring athletes nationwide.
For players like Diskit C Angmo, the dream began by watching her brother on the ice. “I didn’t know girls could even play hockey,” she recalls. That curiosity sparked a movement in Ladakh, inspiring young women to challenge entrenched gender norms. Team captain Tsewang Chuskit remembers the skepticism vividly: “Some uncles asked, ‘Why are you playing a boys’ sport?’ Instead of discouraging me, it made me want to prove them wrong.”
The criticism was not confined to the stands. Assistant Coach Ali Amir recalls hearing remarks like, “You’re a girl, you’ll just get married and leave.” Yet, those very players defied expectations and carried the tricolour onto the global stage.
Even as detractors scoffed — saying the team was “happy with fourth place” or “traveling abroad for fun” — the women refused to settle. “We weren’t satisfied with fourth,” said Padma Chorol. Rigzin Yangdol added, “To score a goal, we weren’t just fighting the opponent; we were fighting the world.”
One of the most inspiring stories came from Rinchen Dolma, who returned to the rink just five months after giving birth. Brushing off taunts like “You’re a mother now, go home”, she not only played but scored, declaring, “I’ll come with my baby and show you what scoring a goal means.”
Assistant Coach Ali Amir described the medal moment as unforgettable: “When the anthem played and our flag was raised, I felt a pride I couldn’t achieve as a player but finally did as a coach — thanks to these women.”
Despite the lack of institutional backing, the team remained united in purpose. “We’re playing for the country,” said Sonam Angmo. “Even without support, we stood strong. This medal is for everyone who believed in us.”
Their remarkable journey has been captured in Sound of Courage, a tribute audio film by Pocket FM, showcasing their passion and perseverance.
From the icy rinks of Ladakh to the Asia Cup podium, India’s Ice Queens have proven that courage can break barriers — and that dreams chased with heart can resonate far beyond the rink.
No Comments: