Indian women’s ice hockey team creates history in 2025 IIHF women’s Asia cup by winning medal for India for the first time ever, this historic match was held at UAE, Al-Ain on 11 June 2025 where in a thrilling shotout victory the team secured third postion in the tournament against Kyrgyzstan.
The Indian team, predominantly hailing from Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh competed against 5 other nation in a robin round format from 31st may to 6th june. With three wins and 2 losses, India scored 7 points, finishing behind gold medalists Philippines and silver medalists Iran. The team scored 13 goals while conceding 16, showcasing team’s hardwork and proficiency. Goalkeeper Dorjoy Dolma emerged as hero as she saved all seven shots in the shootout, sealing the historic win.
“This victory is a dream come true” said team captain Tsewang Chuskit. “ice hockey is deeply rooted in our Ladakh’s culture, played on frozen lakes by locals and the Indian army in the region. To bring a medal home for India feels unreal and will inspire more girls across the country to take up the sport”.
The team faced significant challenges, including limited access to proper equipments. Most of the players trained on naturally frozen lakes in Ladakh’s harsh winters, burrowing equipments and gears from male players often being oversized for them. Despite theese obstacle their determination and hardwork propped them forward. “We have practiced on frozen lakes with almost no resources, but this bronze medal proves that their is no barrier that is too big” said former captain Rinchen Dolma. Hockey India and Ice Hockey Association of India celebrated the achievement, planning to boost sport’s visibility beyond northern India.
As the team returned to India their victory sparked calls for better infrastructure, including functional ice rinks and funding hikes. Social media blew up with praises, celebrities like Sidharth Malhotra and Samantha Prabhu acknowledged team’s hardwork and dedication.
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