Salima Tete: India's Rising Star in Women's Hockey

Salima Tete, a key player of the Indian women’s hockey team, has been named Asia’s emerging player by the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF), as well as the Athlete Ambassador of the Asian Continent. Salima’s contribution to the team’s success stories over the last few years has been instrumental, and she hopes to be a part of many more moments of glory.

Salima began playing hockey as a child on grass, and one of the highlights of her career so far has been India’s fourth-place finish at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. This achievement has not only helped the athlete, but it has also brought attention to her village and improved the training facilities there.

“Playing for India has really changed my life a lot, it has given me everything I could have asked for. I just want to keep performing for the country and winning more matches,” Salima said.

Salima was part of the Indian team that finished fourth at the Tokyo Olympics and went on to be part of the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup 2021 team in South Africa which also finished in fourth place. She was also a key player for the Indian team that finished third in the FIH Women’s Hockey Pro League 2021/22 and won the bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham.

Salima’s journey in hockey began through the junior nationals, and Asunta Lakra was her role model. She credits Nikki Pradhan as an important figure in her development and also thanks her family for their constant support.

Salima’s recognition by the AHF is a testament to her hard work and dedication to the sport, and she hopes to continue to perform at the highest level for India.

Re-reported from the story originally published in ANI News