Preeti Dubey, the dynamic forward, has earned her spot in the 33-member Indian Women’s Hockey Team currently undergoing training at SAI Bangalore. Following selection trials held on April 6th and 7th, the squad was finalized from the initial 60-member assessment group that commenced training on April 1st, 2024.
Among the chosen 33 players, Preeti Dubey’s name shines brightly. Hailing from Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, the 25-year-old player last represented the Indian Women’s Hockey Team during the Hockey World League Semi-Final in 2017. Her resurgence into the national setup follows a standout performance at the 14th Hockey India Senior Women National Championship 2024, held in Pune.
Expressing her elation at this achievement, Preeti remarked, “It’s an incredible feeling to return to the national team. However, this is just the beginning of my journey. My dedication and perseverance have borne fruit. I extend my gratitude to my family and coaches whose unwavering support propelled me through challenging times. I always maintained faith in my abilities, believing that the opportunity to return would present itself.”
Reflecting on the obstacles she overcame, Preeti shared, “The past few years have been a rollercoaster ride, but each challenge has fortified my resolve. The 2020 lockdown posed significant hurdles as I struggled to balance my job at Centre Railway in Mumbai with my hockey aspirations. Despite the adversities, I remained committed to my fitness regimen, dedicating late hours to training after work.”
“My immediate goal is to secure a spot in the 18-member squad, rebuild my confidence, and contribute to our team’s success in international competitions. My sights are firmly set on the 2028 Summer Olympics,” she affirmed.
Preeti also divulged her daily sources of motivation and self-improvement strategies, saying, “My father’s encouragement and my coaches’ belief in my potential serve as constant motivators. Their faith in me fuels my determination to excel, even in challenging circumstances. I maintain a diary where I document my aspirations through sketches, serving as a reminder of the obstacles I’ve surmounted.”
Renowned for her agility, tactical acumen, and unwavering commitment, Preeti’s inclusion brings invaluable experience and leadership to the team. Having represented the nation in numerous national and international events, including the Olympics and World Cup, her presence promises to inspire her teammates to elevate their performance.
In 2016, Preeti emerged as one of the youngest members of the Indian Women’s Hockey Team during their historic qualification for the Rio Olympics. Additionally, she led the 18-member Indian
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