Dharamshala, May 2
Two kabaddi players from Himachal Pradesh, Nikita Chauhan and Simran Kamboj, received a warm welcome in Dharamshala after returning from the Asian Games, where they secured gold medals and brought laurels to the country. The athletes credited the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Center in Dharamshala for their success.
The players said that discipline, modern infrastructure, and structured training at the center played a key role in their achievement. They described the facility as a turning point in their sporting careers.
Speaking to the media, the athletes said high altitude training and international standard mat facilities significantly improved their performance. They also expressed gratitude to their coaches for refining their techniques and supporting them during challenging phases.
Kabaddi coach Pooja Thakur said the achievement reflects the dedication of the coaching staff and the strong support system at the center. She added that the environment at SAI Dharamshala has helped players develop mental strength and discipline. She also noted that many players from the center are now representing national teams, highlighting its growing importance in Indian sports.
Nikita Chauhan said senior players at the center inspired them and credited the supportive atmosphere for helping athletes develop into champions.
Simran Kamboj said the training and diet provided at the SAI Center helped them perform under pressure at the international level during competitions in China. She called for greater recognition of sports facilities and urged better focus on encouraging women in sports. She also supported expanding opportunities, such as the Pro Kabaddi League for women players.
The athletes’ success has brought national attention to the Dharamshala SAI Center. Coaches praised their dedication and hard work, saying it has led to their achievements at the international level. The players said they aim to continue winning medals for the country in future competitions.
