Bengaluru: Nine talented hockey players from Kodagu have been selected to represent Karnataka at the 16th Hockey India Junior Women’s National Hockey Championship 2026, scheduled to be held in Pune, Maharashtra, from August 12 to 23.
The Karnataka State Junior Women’s Hockey team was announced ahead of the championship, with the nine players from Kodagu earning their places in the squad.
The Kodagu players are coming into the national championship with confidence after their impressive performance at the All India Hockey Tournament held in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, in February, where they helped the team secure a bronze medal.
Team captain Cheppudira Manisha Poovamma said qualifying for Pool A would be her primary objective.
“Qualifying Karnataka from Pool B to Pool A is my goal as the team captain for the first time. We have good players in the team that has been formed. We expect a good performance from everyone. I am confident that we will achieve our goal.”
Cheppudira Manisha Ponnamma, Pratheeksha, Disha Nidyamale, Chandana Thadiyappan, Parlin Ponnamma, Monica Nanaiah, Akshitha, Gagana and Punya are the Kodagu players included in the Karnataka Junior Women’s team.
Cheppudira Manisha Poovamma has been named captain of the Karnataka team, while Pratheeksha has been appointed vice-captain. The other members of the Karnataka squad are Harshitha, Deepika, Neha, Rishashree, Lipshika, Mehar, Vaishnavi and Preethika.
Karnataka, placed in Pool B, will be aiming to qualify for Pool A. The players, buoyed by their bronze-medal finish in Gwalior, are determined to carry the same confidence, enthusiasm and momentum into the championship in Pune.
The tournament assumes added significance for the Karnataka players as the selection process for the Indian junior women’s hockey team is also scheduled to take place. A strong performance in Pune could therefore provide an important opportunity for the players to stake their claim for national selection.
Players from Kodagu have made a significant contribution to Indian hockey over the years. Sports enthusiasts and local residents have wished the district’s players success, expressing hope that they will deliver strong performances and bring further recognition to Karnataka and the country at the Junior National Championship.
Speaking about her preparations, one of the players said:
“We played well and won the bronze medal at the All India Tournament held in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, in February. I have decided to put up a good performance in this tournament as well. Since the selection process for the Indian junior team will be held, my goal is to perform well and earn a place in the Indian team.”
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Terrific news for Kodagu and well done girls! Hoping to see a few playing for the National team – about time the talent was recognized and representation becomes a reality. All the very best.
Congratulations to all nine talented players from Kodagu! 👏🏑 Your hard work and dedication have brought great pride to the district and Karnataka. Wishing the entire Karnataka team the very best for the Junior Women’s National Hockey Championship. Go well and make Kodagu proud! ❤️💪