Neha Goyal, born on November 15, 1996, in Sonipat, Haryana, is a prominent Indian field hockey midfielder known for her resilience, skill, and leadership on the field. Rising from a challenging background, she has become a vital part of India’s national team.
Early Life and Background
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Born into a financially struggling family in Sonipat, Haryana, with two elder sisters.
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Her father struggled with alcoholism, and her mother worked as a daily wage laborer in a cycle factory earning very little.
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Faced hardships such as lack of proper shoes, equipment, and nutrition during her early years.
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Started playing hockey at age 11 after being inspired by a local hockey field offering clothes and shoes to players.
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Trained at the hockey academy run by former India captain Pritam Rani Siwach.
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Completed schooling at Tika Ram Senior Secondary Girls School.
Career Highlights
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Junior Career:
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Selected for India’s Junior Asia Cup squad at age 14 in 2011.
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Named Player of the Tournament at the U-21 Four-Nations Lal Bahadur Shastri Women’s Hockey Tournament the same year.
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Senior National Team:
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Made senior debut in 2014 at the FIH Champions Challenge in Glasgow.
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Over 100 international caps by 2022, a milestone celebrated during the FIH Pro League.
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Key member of the Indian squad that won silver at the 2018 Asian Games and the 5th Women’s Asian Champions Trophy.
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Played a pivotal role in India’s historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
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Contributed to India’s bronze medals at the 2022 Women’s Asia Cup and Commonwealth Games.
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Awarded the Hockey India Ajit Pal Singh Award for Midfielder of the Year in 2019.
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Domestic Career:
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Captains Odisha Warriors in the Hockey India League.
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Represents Railway Sports Promotion Board and Hockey Haryana in domestic competitions.
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Playing Profile
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Position: Midfielder
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Strengths:
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Excellent ball control and distribution
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Tactical awareness and ability to link defense and attack
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Composure and work ethic under pressure
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Style:
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Dynamic midfielder known for her resilience and ability to inspire teammates
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Plays a crucial role in controlling the midfield tempo
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Notable Facts
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Overcame significant personal and financial hardships to reach the top of Indian hockey.
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Her journey is an inspiration to many young athletes from underprivileged backgrounds.
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Praised by coaches and teammates for her determination and leadership qualities.
FAQs About Neha Goyal
What position does Neha Goyal play?
Midfielder
Where is she from?
Sonipat, Haryana, India
How old is Neha Goyal?
28 (born November 15, 1996; as of July 2025)
What are her main achievements?
Over 100 international caps, Asian Games silver medalist, Asian Champions Trophy silver medalist, Tokyo 2020 Olympian, Commonwealth Games bronze medalist
What is her playing style?
Resilient, tactically intelligent midfielder with excellent ball control and leadership
Conclusion
Neha Goyal’s inspiring rise from a humble background to becoming a key midfielder for India’s women’s hockey team highlights her talent, determination, and impact on the sport. Her contributions have been vital in India’s recent international successes and she remains a role model for aspiring athletes.
