Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Goa University has finalized its men’s and women’s judo squads for the upcoming South West Zone Inter University Judo Tournament for the 2025 to 2026 season. The championship, conducted under the Association of Indian Universities framework, will take place at SAGE University in Bhopal from November 10 to 14, 2025. The event will bring together top university teams from the region, and Goa University aims to deliver a strong performance through its well-prepared contingents.
Ahead of their departure, a kit distribution and farewell gathering was held on November 5 at the Sports Section of Goa University. The send-off brought together key members of the university’s sports administration and coaching staff. University Assistant Director of Physical Education and Sports, Mr. Balachandra Jadar, and Assistant Sports Officer, Mr. Dinesh Patil, interacted with the athletes and encouraged them to compete with discipline and confidence. The women’s team coach, Ms. Shaman Prabhu, and team manager, Mr. Dewaraj Hirekurabar, were present to guide the players as they finalize their preparations. The men’s team will be led by Mr. Arjun Kadam, who will serve as both coach and manager for the squad.
The men’s lineup features Darshan Naik, Shashidhar Lamani, Rohan Gaonkar, Rama Maulingkar, Biru Singh, Advait Kumar, and Niyaz Shaikh. Each athlete has been selected based on recent performances and trials, ensuring a balanced team capable of handling the competitive pressure of a high-ranking university tournament.
Representing the university in the women’s division are Tanishka Shivolkar, Juliet Varghese, Isha Fernandes, Aditi Sadekar, Priti Kalmankar, and Numa Subba. The women’s team brings together a mix of experience and emerging talent, reflecting the steady progress of judo at the university level.
Goa University officials expressed confidence that both teams will showcase their skills while upholding the institution’s sporting values. The athletes will leave for Bhopal with the aim of making a strong impression at the zonal championship and securing advancement to the national stage.
