BENGALURU: The Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa Hockey Arena in Shantinagar came alive with energy and sporting fervor as the Jayanagar Kodava Sangha, in association with Hockey Karnataka, successfully hosted OKKOOTA 2026 – Rink Hockey Tournament on October 31 and November 1, 2026.
Bringing together 20 teams across two days, the tournament proved to be a vibrant celebration of passion, community spirit, and Kodava hockey heritage.
Nurturing Tomorrow’s Stars: Kids Rink Hockey:
The event kicked off on October 31 with the second edition of the Kids Rink Hockey Tournament. Twelve teams of young hockey enthusiasts took to the turf, displaying impressive technical skills, tactical discipline, and exemplary sportsmanship. Embodying the core motto of “Play, Learn, Grow, Belong,” the tournament provided a high-energy platform for budding athletes to build competitive confidence and foster a lifelong love for the game.
In a fiercely contested final, Kodava Marshals (Vidyanayapura) clinched the championship title, while Kaveri Tuskers (Jayanagar) put up a valiant effort to finish as runners-up.

High-Octane Action: Senior Rink Hockey:
The momentum escalated on November 1 with the Senior Rink Hockey Tournament, which featured an innovative IPL-style format. Eight teams battled for glory after being assembled through a high-stakes player auction, where team owners from around the globe actively bid for talent. This high-intensity structure infused fresh vitality into the sport, thrilling players and spectators alike.
Following a series of fast-paced, nail-biting encounters, KAKOOT Strikers (Kodagu) emerged as the champions of OKKOOTA 2026, defeating THITH Kodavas (Jayanagar) in an electrifying final match.
A Legacy Beyond the Turf:
Beyond the high-stakes action, OKKOOTA 2026 succeeded in uniting hockey enthusiasts across generations while reinforcing community bonds through sports.
Organizers expressed deep gratitude to Hockey Karnataka, team owners, financial contributors, volunteers, and well-wishers whose tireless efforts made the grand event possible. Through initiatives like OKKOOTA, the Jayanagar Kodava Sangha remains committed to grass-roots sports development, nurturing young talent, and creating accessible avenues for athletic excellence championing the vision: More Children. Stronger India.



