Punjab Gears Up for Khelo India Youth Games: Trials for Malkhamb and Volleyball Teams to Be Held on January 3rd & 5th
Chandigarh, January 2: The Punjab Sports Department has announced that trials for the selection of Malkhamb and Volleyball teams for the upcoming 6th Khelo India Youth Games 2024 will be conducted on January 3rd and 5th, respectively. The prestigious national sports event is set to take place from January 19th to 31st in Tamil Nadu, drawing talented young athletes from across the country to compete.
A spokesperson from the Sports Department provided detailed information about the trials. The Malkhamb trials, for both boys and girls, will be held on January 3rd at 11 a.m. at Saffron Public School in Phagwara. Meanwhile, the trials for the Volleyball (Girls) team will take place on January 5th at 11 a.m. at the Sports Complex located in Sector 63, SAS Nagar.
This announcement has created excitement among aspiring athletes in Punjab, who are keen to represent the state in the Khelo India Youth Games. Malkhamb, an ancient Indian sport that combines gymnastics, yoga, and strength exercises performed on a pole or rope, is gaining recognition for its physical and mental discipline. On the other hand, Volleyball remains a popular team sport, and the trials will provide a great opportunity for talented girls to showcase their skills and earn a spot in the state team.
The spokesperson further emphasized that only those players born on or after January 1, 2005, will be eligible to participate in the trials. This eligibility criterion aligns with the Khelo India Youth Games’ age restrictions, ensuring that the selected athletes represent the best of India’s youth in their respective sports categories.
As the trials approach, athletes are expected to prepare rigorously to secure their positions in the state teams. For many young athletes, Khelo India Youth Games serve as a stepping stone to higher-level competitions, providing national exposure and opportunities for growth. Punjab has a strong tradition in sports, and the state has consistently produced top-tier athletes in various disciplines. By participating in the Khelo India Youth Games, Punjab’s young athletes will not only showcase their skills but also carry forward the state’s sporting legacy.
The 6th edition of the Khelo India Youth Games is anticipated to be one of the largest and most competitive editions yet, with athletes from all over India coming together to participate in a wide range of sports. The event, an initiative by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, aims to encourage grassroots talent and promote a sporting culture across the country. With sports ranging from traditional games like Malkhamb to modern disciplines like Volleyball, the event highlights India’s rich and diverse sporting heritage.
The Punjab Sports Department is making all necessary arrangements to ensure that the trials are conducted smoothly and fairly. The selection of athletes will be based on their skills, technique, and overall performance during the trials. Selected athletes will undergo further training and preparation before heading to Tamil Nadu for the main event.
The participation of Punjab’s teams in Khelo India Youth Games reflects the state’s commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting sports at the grassroots level. The government has been investing in sports infrastructure and development programs, which are helping athletes hone their skills and compete at national and international levels.
As the trials for Malkhamb and Volleyball approach, the excitement among young athletes is palpable. For many, this is a chance to showcase their talent on a national platform, and for the state, it’s an opportunity to bring glory home.
