Excelsior Sports Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Feb 27: In an effort to foster inclusivity and talent development, the Hope Disability Centre held district-level trials in Ganderbal today.
Supported by the Department of Youth Services and Sports, J&K, the Ganderbal district administration, and the College of Physical Education, Gadoora Ganderbal, the event garnered participation from approximately 220 athletes across various sports categories.
The organizers stated that the competitive platform featured diverse disciplines, including girls’ cricket and football, boys’ football, 60-meter races for both genders, carrom, chess, and long jump.
“The trials aimed not only to unearth latent talent but also to promote sportsmanship and camaraderie among participants,” they said. The organizers informed that the HCL Foundation’s “Sports for Change” initiative, inaugurated in 2017, has been instrumental in nurturing budding athletes from marginalized backgrounds.
“With a commitment to providing equitable opportunities, the program has seen the involvement of over 21,000 athletes since its inception, with 113 sports scholarships awarded to deserving individuals.”
Through meticulous organization of trials and talent scouting at block, district, and UT levels, the center has catalyzed the rise of numerous aspiring athletes, offering them a pathway to national-level exposure and scholarships.
“The ‘Sports for Change’ scholarship offers financial support to deserving athletes, covering education, training, and equipment costs. Eligible students must be currently studying in Class 9 or above at a recognized institution,” the organizers said.