Why Elena Norman Stepped Down As Long-Serving CEO Of Hockey India

Hockey India's CEO Elena Norman stepped down from the position after nearly 13 years, citing non-payment of dues and a "suffocating" work environment, the Press Trust of India reported. This comes just days after the chief coach of the Indian Women's hockey team opened up about disrespect and discrimination. Unnamed sources from the national federation told PTI that the Australian leader was not paid for the last three months. "She was also unhappy with the work environment," the source added.

Norman's resignation and Schopman's disclosure have stirred big controversies in the country's hockey federation. The end of Norman's relationship with the federation is a major setback for India's sports landscape.

Elena Norman Resigns

Hockey India (HI) has not disclosed the reason behind CEO Norman's resignation but a top source, whose name was not disclosed, told the Press Trust of India that she had not been paid for the last three months. Confirming her resignation, Norman told PTI, "It was getting tough to deliver in the fight between two factions. There is (President) Dilip Tirkey and I and there is (Secretary) Bholanath Singh, (Executive Director) Cdr. R K Srivastava and (Treasurer) Sekar J Manoharan."

Detailing on infighting within the federation, Norman decided the step down from the coveted position. The 49-year-old continued, "There are guys who want power and then there is Dilip who is a nice guy, only after the betterment of Indian hockey. There were some issues (regarding my salary) and after much persuasion that got cleared last week," Norman said.

Accepting her resignation, HI president and former India captain Dilip Tirkey shared, "Not only as the President of Hockey India but also as a former player and avid hockey enthusiast, I want to formally acknowledge and extend my sincere gratitude for her remarkable contributions over the last 12-13 years. Her dedication and efforts have played a pivotal role in propelling Hockey India and Indian hockey to the commendable position they hold today."

Elena Norman moved from Australia to India in 2007 to work for a sports marketing firm. She was appointed as Hockey India's first CEO in 2011 and served for over a decade. Speaking about the future, Norman told the media, "I am going to take a holiday, I am going to go fishing, I am going to go for some trek, I am going to spend time with my family. I have been here for a long time so I just want to unwind now. I will take at least three months off and then look for exciting opportunities. I don't know what will happen in future, to be honest, but it's all going to be great."