SHIMLA: India’s boys and girls shone at the ISF U-15 World School Volleyball Championship 2025 in Shangluo, China. The boys’ team struck Bronze, beating Brazil 25–23, 25–13. The girls’ team finished 7th, marking a proud moment for the country.
ADPO Headquarters and international referee Santosh Chauhan said Himachal’s Shabad Gautam played a crucial role as libero. From Thakur Ram Lal Sports Hostel, Jubbal, Khyati, Riya, and Preeti starred for the girls’ team.
CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Education Minister Rohit Thakur congratulated the players, praising hostel in-charge Balwant (Jhota) and coach Jitender Dhaulta for quality training.
School Education Director Ashish Kohli called the participation of four Himachali players and one referee a landmark in the state’s sports history. SGFI CEO Parth Suresh Doshi, Mukhtej Singh Vadesha, and Vishwamay Vyas also extended wishes.
SGFI Secretary General Dr. Amarjeet Kumar Sharma said that for the first time since 1972, both boys’ and girls’ teams represented India together and finished in the top eight—a major boost for SGFI and the nation. He added that SGFI will continue sending school teams to global and Asian championships to give young athletes international exposure.
