Excitement fills the air as top players from Gujarat gear up to demonstrate their talents at the upcoming School Games Federation of India (SGFI) event in Delhi, Gwalior, and Bhopal. These players have honed their skills during the Khele Gujarat State Summer Camp held in Vadodara, organized by the Sports Authority of Gujarat. The camp, spanning 21 days, witnessed the participation of 264 players from various parts of Gujarat, engaging in Badminton, Swimming, and Shooting.
The camp has proven to be highly beneficial for the selected players, who have not only improved their techniques but also developed a competitive spirit by interacting with fellow players from diverse backgrounds. Vivek Gohil, a swimmer from Bhavnagar, is thrilled to participate in his first SGFI in Delhi. After attending the summer coaching camp in Vadodara, he has witnessed a notable improvement in his skills. Inspired by his sister, he aspires to achieve great success in the competition. Similarly, Om Kadam, a backstroke swimmer from Vadodara, is participating in his second SGFI and draws inspiration from Riddhi Kadam, an international-level Triathlon athlete. Utsav Parihar, also from Vadodara, eagerly anticipates his first SGFI and trains rigorously to achieve better timing and perform exceptionally well.
Ahmedabad’s badminton player, Vivitsa Jadhav, idolizes Tai Tzu-ying and has gained valuable insights from the state-level summer camp in Vadodara. Having played the game for six years, she is excited to participate in her first SGFI in Gwalior. Aneri Kotak, a top-seeded player from Gujarat, shares the same enthusiasm for her maiden SGFI and aims to secure the top spot. Vaishwati Dave from Vadodara, participating in her first SGFI, sets her sights on excelling in both team and individual events in Gwalior.
Dravya Chokshi from Vadodara faced a real test to earn selection for the SGFI. Despite facing setbacks due to injuries after playing in the U-14 category, he persevered and made a strong comeback, securing a place in the U-19 team for the SGFI in Gwalior. He draws inspiration from his coach, Pratik Patel, a former international player, and is confident in his ability to perform well. Dev Rajput from Valsad, participating in his second SGFI, has utilized the three summer camps to learn crucial techniques and enhance his game. The camp has also instilled discipline, respect for seniors, and motivation among the younger players.
Vadodara, with its commitment to promote sports, hosted the Khele Gujarat State Summer Camp, welcoming players from all corners of Gujarat. Shooting events took place at the Manjalpur Sports Complex, swimming at the Sama Indoor Sports Complex, and Badminton at the Waghodia Sports Complex. The District Sports Development Office ensured all facilities were provided according to the guidelines set by the Sports Authority of Gujarat, with the aim of nurturing and supporting aspiring athletes.
