SRINAGAR, Nov 6: Spartan Srinagar in the men’s section and Elite Srinagar in the women’s section emerged as champions in the 38th Srinagar District Volleyball Men and Women Championship, held at Gindun Playfield, Srinagar. Nowpura Spikers and Kashmir University finished as runners-up in the respective categories.
The two-day championship was organised by the Srinagar District Volleyball Association under the aegis of the Volleyball Association of Jammu & Kashmir, in collaboration with the J&K Sports Council. On the opening day of the championship Kurpali Petal Singh Divisional Sports Officer (k) ,J&K sports Council was the chief guest.
The tournament witnessed an impressive participation of 23 teams, including 17 teams in the men’s section and six in the women’s section, representing different parts of Srinagar district. Around 170 male and 60 female players participated in the championship, showcasing their talent and sporting skills.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest, Sunil Koul, Assistant Director, Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India, appreciated the organisers for promoting volleyball and providing a platform for young talent.
He emphasised the importance of sports in channelising the energy of youth towards positive activities, contributing to nation-building working as catalyst to shun the menace of drug abuse. The Guest of Honour, Sajad Ahmed, International Football Coach, also graced the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, Mohd Tariq, Treasurer, Volleyball Association of J&K, gave an account of the district-level championships organised so far in Ganderbal and Bandipora districts of Kashmir. He highlighted the objectives of the association, particularly its commitment to mobilising youth through sports and engaging them in nation-building activities.
Kuldeep Magotra, former CEO of the Volleyball Association of J&K, reiterated that the association stands committed to eradicating social evils from society and promoting the vision of Nasha Mukt J&K by engaging young people in sports and allied activities. The Chief Guest was felicitated with a memento by the organisers as a mark of appreciation.
Vijay Kumar Magotra, former General Secretary of the Association, was among the prominent dignitaries present on the occasion.& Unveiled the activities of the Association being carried out all across J&K.
Muneer Aalam, Secretary, Srinagar District Volleyball Association, extended a vote of thanks to the dignitaries, office bearers of the Volleyball Association of J&K, participating teams and sports lovers for their valuable support and contribution towards making the championship a successful sporting event.
The championship received an overwhelming response from sports enthusiasts, particularly volleyball lovers, who turned up in large numbers to witness the exciting encounters.