Sunelita Toppo: From Bamboo Sticks to International Hockey Arenas
Sunelita Toppo’s journey from the rustic fields of Kukuda village in Odisha to the international hockey arenas is a testament to her unwavering determination and passion for the sport. Born on April 11, 2007, in Sundergarh district, Odisha—a region renowned for producing hockey talents—Sunelita’s story is one of grit, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
Early Life and Introduction to Hockey
Growing up in a modest household, Sunelita was inspired by her aunt, Anupa Barla, a former Junior World Cup player for India. At the tender age of eight, she began playing hockey using bamboo sticks, showcasing her innate talent and love for the game. Recognizing her potential, she joined the Sports Authority of India Training Centre in Sundergarh, a cradle for budding hockey stars in India.
Rise Through the Ranks
Sunelita’s dedication and hard work bore fruit when she represented Odisha in the National Games held in Gujarat in 2022. Her stellar performance caught the attention of national selectors, leading to her inclusion in the junior national team. She made her junior India debut in February 2023 during the four-match South Africa tour. Her journey continued with participation in the Women’s Junior Asia Cup in Japan, where India clinched the gold medal, and the Women’s Hockey Junior World Cup in Santiago, Chile, in December 2023.
Senior Team Debut and Achievements
In February 2024, Sunelita made her senior debut at the FIH Pro League against China in Bhubaneswar. Since then, she has earned 27 international caps and scored one goal for the national team. Her contributions were pivotal in India’s gold medal victory at the Asian Champions Trophy held in Rajgir in 2024.
Playing Style and Position
Initially starting as a midfielder, Sunelita transitioned to the forward line, where her agility, speed, and tactical acumen have made her a formidable presence on the field. Her ability to navigate tight defenses and create scoring opportunities has been instrumental in her rapid ascent in international hockey.
Personal Life and Inspirations
Sunelita hails from a family deeply rooted in sports. Her father, Suresh Toppo, is a farmer, and her mother, Nelisunita Toppo, is a homemaker. The unwavering support from her family, especially her aunt Anupa Barla, played a significant role in shaping her hockey career. Despite facing challenges, including a shoulder injury in 2019, Sunelita’s resilience and determination saw her return stronger, earning accolades and recognition on national and international platforms.
Professional Engagements and Future Aspirations
In 2024, Sunelita was signed by the Delhi SG Pipers, a franchise in the Hockey India League, for a whopping ₹24 lakh, making her one of the top five most expensive players in the auction. Her performances in domestic and international tournaments have solidified her reputation as one of India’s most promising young talents. Looking ahead, Sunelita aspires to represent India at the Olympics and bring home a gold medal, a dream she has nurtured since her early days in Kukuda.
FAQs
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When did Sunelita Toppo start playing hockey?
She began playing hockey at the age of eight using bamboo sticks in her village, Kukuda. -
What position does Sunelita play?
Sunelita started as a midfielder but later transitioned to the forward position, where she currently plays for the national team. -
Which major tournaments has she participated in?
She has played in the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2023, Women’s Hockey Junior World Cup 2023, and the Asian Champions Trophy 2024. -
How many international caps does she have?
As of 2025, Sunelita has earned 27 international caps and scored one goal for the Indian national team. -
What are her future aspirations?
Sunelita aims to represent India at the Olympics and win a gold medal for the country.
