Team Goemkarponn
Fatorda: Goycar emerged as champions of the inaugural Junior Premier Badminton League after securing a dramatic 105-104 victory over Radiant Sports Club in a closely contested final at the Multipurpose Stadium in Fatorda.
The summit clash delivered a gripping finish, with both teams battling intensely across seven doubles matches in a unique team-based format. Goycar managed to win four of the seven encounters, which ultimately proved decisive as they edged ahead by a single point in an electrifying conclusion.
Earlier in the competition, the league followed a round robin format across two groups. Goycar and Radiant Sports Club displayed consistent form throughout the group stage, each registering three wins to top their respective groups and advance to the final.
In Group A, Antruz Warriors finished in second place, followed by Salcete Badminton Club and Margao Shuttlers. Group B saw Margao High Flyers secure second position, with Sports O and Panjim Smash Squad completing the standings.
The tournament marked a significant step forward for junior team badminton in Goa, showcasing emerging talent and competitive spirit among young players. The event was organised by Kamat Elite Badminton Centre with support from Vaidya Foundation and Solar Enterprises, laying a strong foundation for future editions of the league.
Goycar’s title-winning squad featured a talented lineup including Aadhya Kuttikar, Aariketh Chari, Aditi Dhargalkar, Aiesha Naik, Anav Kanekar, Aswin M, Astha Paudel, Ishaan Dessai, Nidhi Nair, Nishka Gauns Dessai, Samrudh Nadkarni, Swamisamarth Bagle, Tej Kittur, Vishwa Parab and Zacharias Gonsalves.
Radiant Sports Club, who finished as runners up after a spirited campaign, were represented by Abraham Gonsalves, Aditi Asundi, Ashbah Tahasildar, Leandre Almeida, Neil Punjani Bakshi, Neevan Narvekar, Owais Tahasildar, Parin Sawant, Pavi Nair, Sairaj Samanth, Sharayu Chube, Shlok Utagi, Tanay Dhond, Titiksha Bhamaikar and Varun Sahakari.
