Playing in PKL is the dream for these kids, reckons Asian Youth Games boys team coach Srinivas Reddy
In New Delhi, a wave of excitement swept through the Thyagaraj Indoor Stadium as India’s top youth kabaddi squads from across the country were given a front‑row seat to Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) action. The event, aimed at sparking talent ahead of the Youth Asian Games, brought together teams coached by Srinivas Reddy, Deepak Niwas Hooda and Mamtha Poojari for a day of live sport and inspiration.
The packed stadium hosted a triple‑header that kicked off with a nail‑biter tiebreaker between Patna Pirates and Bengaluru Bulls. Fans then cheered as Telugu Titans took on U Mumba, followed by a powerful clash between reigning champions Haryana Steelers and UP Yoddhas. Players, coaches, and supporters were treated to high‑energy matches that showcased why the PKL is the world’s fastest‑growing kabaddi league.
Coaching stars highlighted how games like these fire up the next generation. “Seeing the PKL in person is a big spark,” said Srinivas Reddy. “These young players get to see how the sport plays out at the highest level before a huge crowd. It’s an inspiring moment that will shape our future PKL stars.”
Deepak Niwas Hooda, one of the league’s most respected all‑rounders, added his perspective. “Kids watch the PKL on TV or on their phones, break down plays, and dream about playing there,” he noted. “For them, catching a live match is a dream come true.”
The initiative, supported by the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India, Mashal Sports and Star Sports, aims to equip the Youth Asian Games squad with real‑world experience. “Thanks to these partners for giving our kids a chance to see live competition,” Reddy said. “This visit will be a huge boost before the tournament.”
Mamtha Poojari, coaching the Indian girls’ team, focused on the mental side of the sport. “The kids were thrilled to watch an international‑standard match live with a massive crowd around them,” she explained. “I used this as a chance to explain how big‑stage pressure feels and how to stay focused no matter the noise.”
Some of the younger players even got close to their PKL idols. “Patna is playing today and a lot of the kids love Ayan,” Poojari shared. “One kid who is a fan of Sunil from U Mumba wanted to see him in action to learn how patient he is and how he controls the team.”
The coaching staff see the current cohort as a prime opportunity for India to produce champions. “This generation could win the Asian Games and National Championships,” Reddy told reporters. “We’re also looking ahead to the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Gujarat and the possibility of kabaddi making the 2036 Olympic Games. Our young players could be at the core of that journey.”
The event, featuring the PKL’s biggest names and the brightest young talent, underscored how live sport exposure can shape future stars. By blending expert coaching, thrilling matches and real‑world experience, the Pro Kabaddi League continues to drive kabaddi’s growth in India and beyond.
Source: ianslive
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