Gonikoppa, Dec. 15: The Inter-School Masters Hockey Cup - 2025 has been officially kicked off at the new Hockey AstoçÃterp ground of the prestigious CALS Educational Institution in Gonikoppa. Karnataka State Sports Authority Vice-Chairman and former Legislative Council member Cheppudira Arun Machayya inaugurated the 3-day inter-school hockey tournament by pushing the ball with a hockey stick.
Speaking after inaugurating the sports meet, C.S. Arun Machayya said that the prestigious Ashwini Sports Foundation in Gonikoppa is a boon to the district. All types of sports including hockey, athletics, swimming, shooting are available in one complex at the educational institution. The educational institution has been working tirelessly for the last 20 years to develop sportsmanship in children. Many students here have showcased their achievements at the national and international levels. He hoped that with the encouragement of the citizens and the government of the district, more sports talents will be represented at the national level.
Datta Karumbaiah, Chairman of the CALS Institute, who presided over the sports meet, spoke. In order to further promote hockey, an inter-school hockey tournament has been organized in the memory of Karumbaiah, a family friend, on a modern, high-quality green Astoturf ground. Since the inter-school tournament has been started, students are getting the opportunity to play on the turf ground at the very initial stage of the school. The 5th edition of the Inter-School Masters Cup Hockey Tournament has been organized. An effort is being made to introduce younger players to the Indian team. He said that this will be an inspiration for young athletes.
Olympian C.S. Poonacha, who arrived as the chief guest, spoke and called on the athletes to make the most of the opportunity given to them by showcasing their hard work on the international quality turf field at the Cals Institute.
Ashwini Nachappa, Founder and Managing Trustee of Ashwini Sports Foundation, said that the 100th anniversary of hockey is being celebrated. Many dignitaries, including Hockey India President Padma Shri Awardee Dilip Turki, are participating as the chief guests for the final tournament for the first time. The aim of the organization is to encourage young athletes, he said.
Cheppudira Kariappa, teachers Pavitha and Swaroop acted as the commentators. Principal of the institution Gouramma welcomed and expressed her vote of thanks. A large number of parents and hockey lovers, including students, watched the tournament.
