In a landmark achievement, the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory (JKUT) Volleyball team has advanced to the finals of the 7th Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG), currently underway in Bihar. The team has made history by qualifying for the championship match for the first time ever, signalling a new era of sporting excellence.
JKUT’s volleyball squad, known for its determination and discipline, delivered an exceptional performance throughout the tournament. After dominant wins in the league stage and a spirited fight in the semifinals, J&K is now set to face Uttar Pradesh in the final today (Thursday), aiming to clinch the coveted title.
The Jammu & Kashmir volleyball team opened their campaign with a thrilling five-set victory over Uttarakhand, clinching the match 3–2. After a shaky start with a first-set loss (18-25), the team bounced back in the second set (25-20), faltered again in the third (16-25), but showed exceptional resilience to take the fourth set (27-25) and seal the decider convincingly (15-9).
In their second match, J&K displayed dominance with a straight-set win over Bihar, defeating the hosts 3–0 in a clinical performance. The scores stood at 25-21, 25-19, and 25-23, highlighting the team’s cohesive gameplay and tactical superiority.
However, in the league stage clash against Uttar Pradesh, J&K faced a setback, losing 3–1 despite a valiant effort. This loss did not deter the team, who regrouped with renewed energy.
In the semifinal, J&K showcased remarkable composure and skill to defeat Manipur in straight sets (25-22, 25-20, 25-23), securing their historic place in the finals for the first time in the history of the Khelo India Youth Games.
In the other semifinal, Uttar Pradesh overpowered Punjab to book their spot in the title clash, setting up a much-anticipated final encounter between J&K and UP.
The success of the JKUT team is credited to meticulous planning and intensive training under the guidance of expert coaches Naresh Kumar, Pratik, and Shubham Sharma.
A pre-tournament coaching camp held at MA Stadium Jammu, organized by the J&K Sports Council under the leadership of Balbir Singh, Divisional Sports Officer (Jammu), prepared the 14-member squad with the latest techniques and rules of the game.
The Volleyball Association of J&K, led by Patron, Raj Daluja and President Sidharth Daluja, extended heartfelt thanks to Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, for her unwavering support in ensuring the team’s smooth preparation and participation in KIYG.
Association Executive Member Subash Sharma was nominated as the team manager, coordinating logistics and morale throughout the tournament.
The JKUT team, comprising talented young players from across Jammu and Kashmir, demonstrated exceptional skill, coordination, and athleticism. From powerful spikes to impenetrable defence and precise serves, their on-court display captivated spectators and left a strong impression on tournament organizers and rival teams alike.
Prominent officials including Kuldip Magotra (CEO), HS Gill (Executive Vice President), Ramesh Sharma (Treasurer), and V.K. Magotra (General Secretary) of the Volleyball Association of J&K extended their best wishes to the team, expressing confidence that they would continue this winning momentum and bring home the championship title.
The JKUT team’s remarkable performance is not just a sporting milestone but a symbol of the growing sports culture and youth talent emerging from the Union Territory. As they prepare to take on Manipur in the semifinals, the entire J&K sports fraternity and supporters are rallying behind the team with high hopes for a spot in the finals.
