M. N. Ponnamma

Ponnamma was born on 25 October 1992 in Kodagu district, in the Indian State of Karnataka, into Mallamada family of the Kodava community. Born to a family of hockey players, her father Narendra, played hockey during his time in the Indian armed forces; her mother, during her college days; and her older sister, who gave up the game after sustaining an injury.^[2] Influenced towards the game by her father, Ponnamma was selected by and began training with Madikeri branch of Sports Authority of India, in 2005.^[1] After having been noticed for her performances at tournaments at the district level, she was chosen to play for Karnataka in its senior team, at the national-level, and would go on to captain the team as well. She was eventually chosen to represent India in its junior and senior teams, in 2011.

• M. N. Poovamma profile at Hockey India