SG Pipers Revamp Coaching Staff and Retain Core Players for HIL Comeback
SG Pipers revamp coaches and keep core players for HIL season.
Following a lackluster performance in last year’s Hockey India League (HIL), where they finished last without a single victory, the Delhi-based SG Pipers have announced a major overhaul of their coaching staff to spearhead a resurgence in the upcoming season. The franchise has appointed Tim Oudenaller and Sofie Gierts as head coaches for the men’s and women’s teams, respectively, signaling a bold shift in strategy.
Oudenaller, currently at the helm of Kampong in the Dutch league, steps in to replace former India coach Graham Reid. Gierts, a former Belgium international, takes over from Dave Smolenaars. The appointments aim to inject fresh energy and international expertise into the beleaguered team.
In addition to the coaching changes, SG Pipers have retained 17 players from their previous squad of 24. Notable releases include Australian players Corey Weyer, Jake Whetton, and Benjamin Rennie, as well as Japan’s Koji Yamasaki. The team has also bolstered its roster by signing Welshman Jacob Draper from the now-defunct Team Gonasika.
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The retained core includes Olympic medallist Shamsher Singh, alongside Varun Kumar, Jarmanpreet Singh, Rajkumar Pal, and goalkeeper Tomas Santiago. Young international talents Gareth Furlong, Ky Willott, and Tomas Domene also remain with the squad, forming a strong foundation for the season ahead.
PR Sreejesh, SG Pipers’ Director of Hockey, expressed confidence in the new appointments, stating, “Tim and Sofie bring a wealth of experience from top European clubs. Their ability to unite diverse players and maximize performance will create a winning environment for both our men’s and women’s teams.”
The men’s coaching staff includes Oudenaller as head coach, Shivendra Singh as assistant coach, and Ivar Nils Knotschke as analytical coach. For the women’s team, Gierts will be supported by assistant coach Helen Mary and analytical coach Michel Kinnen.
With these strategic changes, SG Pipers are poised to transform their fortunes and make a strong statement in the upcoming HIL season.
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