Sonam, who is just 19 years old, stole the show in the Women’s Hockey India League 2024–25 with her outstanding exploits, as her vital goals propelled JSW Soorma Hockey Club to the championship game in their first season. The Haryana-born attacker topped the Indian charts and finished the tournament as the second-highest scorer.

Sonam said, “Before the tournament began, I didn’t even expect to play any matches because I was very young and there were far more experienced attackers in my team,” in reference to her breakthrough season.

“I knew I had to give it my all in order to stay in the playing squad when I got the chance to play in the first match against Delhi SG Pipers,” she said.

Sonam became a serious danger to the other teams because of her ability to create chances and score goals consistently. “Our team played an extremely attacking style of hockey, which makes the striker’s role very important,” she said in response to a question regarding the key to her success. I attempted to score as many goals as I could because I knew I had to give it my all for the team to succeed.

Sonam’s flawless performances on the field even earned her the title of Upcoming Player of the Tournament. It has inspired me more than ever, and I am very proud of it. I will try my hardest to play for my nation because I know I can play much better and go much further.

“I had a lot of assistance from my coach, Jude Menezes, who was always there for me in times of need. He really inspired me to get this honor,” Sonam continued.

Sonam further said that Rani Rampal Singh, whom she had the opportunity to collaborate with at HIL, was her childhood hero. “She (Rani Rampal) used to tell me the mistakes I made and help me improve them after every match,” she added with excitement as she related her experience. She has given me a lot of encouragement, and I want to follow in her footsteps.

Sonam was seen sobbing on the sidelines after Soorma lost the final, demonstrating her desire to win the championship alongside her squad. “Like everyone else, we wanted to make history and win, but when that didn’t happen, I felt really strange and started crying,” Sonam said.

Sonam was chosen in the reserves for the next FIH Women’s Pro League games in Bhubaneswar, securing her a place in the national team after her heroic performance in the Hero HIL.

When my family learned the news, they were overjoyed. I am convinced that I can offer India my best effort. In response to her India call-up, she said, “I am learning a lot from the senior players here in the camp and I will make the most of the opportunity if I get to play.”