Tamil Nadu Dragons

Tamil Nadu Dragons, a franchise owned by Charles Group, represents Tamil Nadu in the Hockey India League (HIL), a league dedicated to reviving and promoting hockey across India. Tamil Nadu has a storied history in hockey, producing numerous players who have represented India on the global stage, including the Olympics. However, the sport’s growth in the state has stagnated over the past two decades. The 2024 revival of the HIL offers Tamil Nadu a promising platform to reignite its hockey legacy, and the Tamil Nadu Dragons franchise stands ready to lead this resurgence.

Based in Chennai, the Tamil Nadu Dragons is a dynamic team with a talented roster and is guided by head coach Rein van Eijk, a Dutch national with deep expertise in international field hockey. The 2024-25 season auction held in Delhi saw the team secure a well-rounded squad of 24 players, including eight international athletes. Key players include defenders Amit Rohidas and Jip Janssen, midfielders Thies Prinz and Tom Craig, and forward Selvam Karthi. In goal, David Harte brings international experience to fortify the Dragons’ defense.

The Tamil Nadu Dragons is more than a team; it is a movement, symbolized by the tagline #therikavidutamizha. The franchise is dedicated to nurturing young talent through grassroots programs, youth academies, and local partnerships. With a strong squad and a commitment to building a hockey culture, Tamil Nadu Dragons aims to inspire a new generation of players, bringing pride to the state and supporting India’s hockey ambitions.