Dedication, excellence shine at 67th National School Games in Srinagar

Joint Director YS&S Waseem Raja ensures seamless execution as young athletes compete with fervour

The 67th National School Games, featuring Football U19 and Volleyball U17 Boys, have taken Srinagar by storm, with young athletes showcasing their skills and sportsmanship in a spirited competition.

The Department of Youth Services & Sports J&K in a statement issued to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said these games not only provide a platform for emerging talent but also highlight the unwavering dedication and commitment of the department.

The tournament, which kicked off on an exciting note, witnessed incredible matches and teamwork. Host Union Territory Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has emerged as a strong contender, securing victories in both Football U19 and Volleyball U17 Boys categories, impressively placing the state at the top of the leaderboards after two days of intense competition.

Waseem Raja, Joint Director YS&S Kashmir, has been the driving force behind the flawless execution of the event. Working tirelessly day and night, he has been meticulously overseeing every aspect of the tournament, the statement said, adding, “From well-placed boarding and lodging arrangements to impeccable mess facilities and top-notch playing venues, Raja has left no detail unattended to ensure the comfort and satisfaction of the participants.”

On Thursday, Raja paid a surprise visit to the Green Valley Institute, the host of the Football matches, to personally inspect the arrangements. “His commitment to excellence was evident as he assessed the facilities and services provided to the young athletes. Following this, he visited the Indoor Sports Complex, one of the venues for Volleyball matches, to monitor the proceedings, exemplifying his dedication to the event's success and the welfare of the participants,” the YS&S said.

The 67th National School Games in Srinagar have not only been a celebration of young talent but also a testament to the collaborative spirit and dedication of officers and officials of the YSS department, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make such events a grand success, the statement said.

“These are poised to continue to be a source of excitement and inspiration for both participants and spectators alike. As the event progresses, we look forward to witnessing even more remarkable displays of athleticism and teamwork,” the sports department said