STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: The Volleyball Association of J&K (VAJK), on the second day of its three-day selection trials for the Junior Boys and Girls categories, registered an impressive turnout of 110 boys and 40 girls at MA Stadium, Jammu.
The trials are being held to shortlist players for the 49th Junior National Volleyball Championships, scheduled to be held at Pilani, Jhunjhunu (Rajasthan) from December 16 to 21, 2025.
The selection process is being conducted under the supervision of expert coaches Romesh Sharma, H.S. Gill, Kuldip Magotra, Muneer Aalam, Mohd Tariq and Akbar Ali, all of whom are also office bearers of VAJK.
Their expertise is helping ensure transparency and high standards in identifying the best players from across the Union Territory.
According to V.K. Magotra, General Secretary VAJK, the overwhelming response from players across J&K has made the selection extremely challenging, as many talented youngsters are competing for limited spots.
The final list of selected players will be announced on November 30, 2025, based on the recommendations of the expert panel.
It was further informed that only players born on or after January 1, 2008 are eligible to participate, and essential documents including Date of Birth certificates and Aadhaar cards are being thoroughly scrutinized by the designated panel.
Following the final selection, a coaching camp will be held from December 1 to 14 at MA Stadium under the guidance of qualified volleyball coaches to prepare the team for the national event.
Sidharth Daluja, President VAJK, urged the youth of J&K to actively engage in sports, including volleyball, for their holistic well-being. He emphasized that sports help young people stay away from social evils such as drug addiction and encouraged them to channel their energies toward nation-building.
He added that the Association, in coordination with the J&K Sports Council and SAI, is making every possible effort to ensure comfort and support for players during training and national participation.