“Vadodara District Collector Atul Gor Encourages Young Talent, Aims for Olympic Representation in 2036”
The vibrant city of Vadodara is once again in the limelight as it hosts the prestigious Jawahar Nehru Hockey Championship 2023 from September 12 to 17 at the Manjalpur Sports Complex. This eagerly anticipated state-level competition brings together the finest hockey teams from Gujarat, who will fiercely compete in the 40th Sub Junior Boys (U-15) and 51st Nehru Junior Boys (U-17) categories, with hopes of securing a berth in the national competition.
The event, organized jointly by the Sports Authority of Gujarat and the office of the District Sports Development Officer, Vadodara, has attracted a total of 485 talented players from various districts across Gujarat. The competition features 29 teams in the Sub Junior category and 30 teams in the Junior Boys category, all participating in an exhilarating knockout format.
A dedicated team of 68 members, including coaches, managers, and technical staff, is working diligently to ensure the smooth conduct of matches and uphold the spirit of sportsmanship throughout the championship. The winning teams will have the honor of representing Gujarat in the national competition, a dream that motivates every young player on the field.
Vadodara’s District Collector, Atul Gor, graced the occasion with his presence, providing invaluable encouragement and support to the budding hockey stars. Expressing his aspirations for the young athletes, Collector Atul Gor shared his hopes that one day, a player from Vadodara would proudly represent India at the 2036 Olympics.
He remarked, “PM Modi, during his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, initiated the ‘Khel Mahakumbh’ to promote sports and create a competitive and friendly environment for sportspersons. The Prime Minister is deeply committed to the development of sports, and India is actively exploring the possibility of hosting the 2036 Olympics. I am optimistic that a talented player from Vadodara will have the privilege of representing India at this prestigious event. I extend my best wishes to every player here, urging them to play with sportsmanship, team spirit, and dedication to bring glory to our country and state.”
The Jawahar Nehru Hockey Championship 2023 marks a significant milestone in the journey of these young hockey players, as they showcase their skills, determination, and passion for the sport. Vadodara is not just hosting a competition but nurturing the dreams of future champions, with the hope of seeing them rise to international acclaim in the years to come.
Rajendra Shelar from Hockey Gujarat, District Sports Development Officer Krishna Pandya, District Sports Officer Dinesh Kadam, Coach Pramila Jacob, along with officials and coaches from different districts of Gujarat, graced the opening day of this prestigious competition.
