They did it again. This time Hockey Jharkhand team players secured their third consecutive title at the 16th Hockey India Sub Junior Women’s National Championship 2026 by defeating Hockey Madhya Pradesh 2-1 in the final.

Sandeepa Kumari, the team’s top scorer with five goals during the tournament, was a key player for Jharkhand, according to a press release.

Inspired to take up hockey in 2021 by her sister, Indian Women’s Hockey Team forward Sangita Kumari, Sandeepa credited her sister’s advice for her performance.

She said, “Before the match, she told me to play with my heart, stay focused throughout, and trust my abilities. She always reminds me to back my skills, stay confident in pressure situations and look to make an impact by scoring goals for the team.”

Emphasising the tournament’s significance, which is supported by Anandana, the Coca-Cola India Foundation, Sandeepa added, “The competition is a very important platform for young players like us. It gives us the opportunity to showcase our talent and grow in the sport. I would like to thank the Anandana Foundation for its continued support of women’s hockey, which motivates players like us to perform and aim higher.”