Srinagar, April 10: The Polo Ground in Srinagar on Friday turned into a vibrant sports arena as it hosted the Touch Rugby National Championship for the first time, drawing over 1,000 athletes from 21 states.
Participants expressed excitement over the landmark event. Rutba, a young player from Srinagar, said she was thrilled to compete against teams from across the country. She said it was a proud moment for the city to host such a major tournament and added that sports help improve both mental and physical health.
The championship has brought together around 75 teams, offering youth a platform to learn, compete, and grow. Players noted that games help build knowledge, discipline, and teamwork.
Coaches and organizers stressed that the main aim of the tournament is to engage youth in positive activities. They raised concern over rising drug use and excessive mobile phone usage among young people. Many said children today spend long hours on screens, which affects their health and limits outdoor activity.
They urged parents to encourage children to take part in sports. “No matter which game they choose, playing on the ground is important,” a coach said, adding that such events send a strong message to society.
The role of parents has also seen a shift. Organizers said earlier generations often discouraged sports, but today many parents actively support their children. They now attend matches and motivate them, which has helped boost participation.
Speakers also highlighted the stress faced by children in Kashmir due to the prevailing environment. They said sports remain one of the most effective ways to reduce stress and build focus.
Officials said they aim to nurture young talent and guide them towards bigger goals, including international competitions and the Olympics. They added that unless children are encouraged to dream and work towards clear goals, progress remains limited.
The event stands as a strong step towards promoting sports culture in J&K, with a clear message to involve more youth in constructive and healthy pursuits.
Leave a comment