Hockey India CEO Elena Norman calls quits blaming 'suffocating environment'

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After a 13-year tenure, Hockey India (HI) CEO Elena Norman has announced her resignation, citing a "suffocating" work environment as the primary reason for her departure.

Her decision follows closely on the heels of the resignation of the Indian women's hockey team coach, Janneke Schopman, who also highlighted challenges within the governing body. Norman's exit adds to the recent setbacks faced by HI, raising concerns over internal dynamics and leadership.

Elena Norman expressed her difficulty in navigating through the internal disputes within Hockey India.

"Absolutely, it was getting tough to deliver in the fight between two factions. The environment was becoming suffocating," Norman was quoted as saying to PTI in an interview.

"There are two factions in Hockey India. There is (President) Dilip Tirkey and I and there is (Secretary) Bholanath Singh, (Executive Director) Cdr. R K Srivastava and (Treasurer) Sekar J Manoharan," she added.

The situation was further exacerbated by the non-payment of her remuneration for three months, a predicament that was only resolved after significant persuasion. This financial issue, coupled with the stressful work environment, led Norman to conclude that her departure was warranted.

During her time with Hockey India, Norman played a pivotal role in the organization and success of significant hockey events in the country. Under her leadership, India hosted two FIH Men's World Cups in 2018 and 2023, two Junior Men's World Cups in 2016 and 2021, and five editions of the Hockey India League (HIL).

She was instrumental in the appointment of key coaches, including Sjoerd Marijne for the women's team and Graham Reid for the men. Notably, under Reid's coaching, the men's team clinched a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics, marking India's return to the Olympic podium in hockey after 41 years.

Norman's departure marks the end of an era during which HI saw substantial growth and success on the international stage. Her efforts in elevating the profile of hockey in India, through both the hosting of major events and strategic appointments, have left a lasting impact on the sport.