Despite battling with a stomach flu outbreak, the Singapore women’s hockey team made history by winning their first Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) Cup title on April 27 in Jakarta.
In a dramatic final at the Bung Karno Sports Complex, they defeated Chinese Taipei 3-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in regulation, winning a spot in the 2025 Women’s Hockey Asia Cup.
Five players got infected with the stomach bug following their group-stage loss to the same opponents. Two players required hospitalisation, including co-captain Valerie Sim, who later described the incident as a true test of resilience. Sim lauded the team’s unity, saying the historic victory felt like the start of something bigger.
Singapore had to come from behind in the final, with coach Henry Wong making the brave decision to substitute the custodian with an outfield player late in the game. That bet paid off, resulting in the equaliser and subsequent shootout victory. Wong feels the victory will boost the team’s confidence as they aim for a top-six finish in the Asia Cup and a spot in the World Cup qualifiers.
Dayana Ong, 17, was awarded the Player of the Tournament.
