Uttarakhand Athletes Selected for International Cestoball Championship in Malaysia
Uttarakhand’s growing focus on emerging sports has received a major boost after three players from the state were selected to represent India at the International Cestoball Championship in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Under the leadership of Poonam Bhagat, the Cestoball Association of Uttarakhand is expanding grassroots sports initiatives to encourage youth participation and international exposure.
The development is being viewed as a significant milestone for athletes participating in emerging sports disciplines that are gradually gaining recognition at national and international levels. Sports supporters and local associations believe the international selection will encourage more young players from smaller towns and districts to pursue professional opportunities in sports.
Under the leadership of Haridwar-based social leader and President of the Cestoball Association of Uttarakhand, Poonam Bhagat, several grassroots-level initiatives are being carried out to identify and support talented athletes across the state. The association has been organising training sessions, awareness campaigns, local competitions, and participation programmes aimed at increasing youth involvement in sports activities.
Speaking on the achievement, Poonam Bhagat said that the youth of Uttarakhand possess immense talent and potential, and that proper exposure, training, and opportunities can help them compete confidently at national and international platforms. She stated that sports play a vital role in developing discipline, confidence, and a positive outlook among young people.
She further emphasised that emerging sports require greater awareness and institutional support to ensure talented athletes from rural and semi-urban areas receive equal opportunities to grow and represent the country. According to her, sports can serve as an effective medium for youth engagement and social development.
Members of the association stated that the ongoing initiatives of the Cestoball Association are helping generate awareness about emerging sports among young people in Uttarakhand. Through training camps, participation drives, and grassroots outreach programmes, the association aims to create structured opportunities for talented players from smaller towns and districts.
Local sports supporters and association members expressed confidence that more athletes from Uttarakhand would represent India in international championships in the coming years. They believe continued focus on grassroots sports development and athlete support can further strengthen Uttarakhand’s presence in emerging sports categories.
The recent international selection of players is being regarded as a positive development for Uttarakhand’s sports ecosystem and reflects the increasing participation of the state’s youth in competitive sporting platforms beyond mainstream disciplines.

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