JKP eyes team championship

8th All India Police Water Sports Championship

Srinagar, May 29: For 8th All Police Water Sports Championship to be held from June 2 to 8, hosts JK Police team is preparing hard these days in Dal Lake near Sheri-Kashmir International Convention Centre, here.The team is practicing in two schedules daily. The team includes international kayaking player Zahoor Latoo, national medallist, Parvaiz Ahmad and players who have won medals at national level.The team will participate in Kayaking, Canoeing and Rowing in the event. Around 20 teams, which include CRPF and BSF, are expected to participate.Since 1998 when JK Police formed water sports team it always excelled in All India Police Meet. The team also won laurels in other national and international events.The team has twice won Kayaking team championship in All India Police meet and was runner-up on two occasions. In 2006, the team won team championship winning three gold, one-silver and one-bronze and in 2007 they won one-gold, two-silver and four-bronze medals. For 2009 championship, JK team has advantage being a host team. With less than a week left, the team is practicing hard. “Apart from individual events, we are also good in team events like K-4 and C-4 and we expect to put on good show,” team coach, Farooq Ahmad, told Greater Kashmir.“We practice on the basis of long term plan that we had made six months ago. Till last week we were concerned about building endurance and stamina but now we are concentrating on speed and accuracy,” he said.“We have advantage of being hosts, but still can’t afford to take things easy. We will be competing in front our own people and don’t want to disappoint them. For that reason players are trying hard and are concentrating on every aspect of their game” coach said.Farooq was all praise for his department who provides them every facility through out the year and helped them to be best water sports team in state.“JK Police department is serious about promoting water sports and for that purpose they give us every facility which we want. This year our department brought latest state of the art kayaking, canoeing and rafting boats, which would be used in the championship. With acquiring of boats, our team has become independent and we can practice through out the year,” he said.The team expects inspiring performances from Zahoor Latoo and Parvaiz Ahmad. Zahoor is the only international Kayaking player of the Valley and has won around 40 national medals. In 33rd National Games held in Assam, he won three medals and was only medalist in the individual event from the Valley.Parvaiz has also won numerous medals for the state and his department at national level.

Apeared in Greater Kashmir on may 30-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=30_5_2009&ItemID=11&cat=4

Mizoram beat J&K 3-0

63rd Santosh Trophy
Srinagar, May 28: After playing a goalless first half, Mizoram pulled up their socks as they defeated Jammu and Kashmir 3-0 in their III match in the 63rd Santosh Trophy at the Tiruchirappalli, Chennai on Thursday. Both the teams tried hard to find the back of the net in the first half but failed, as they didn’t get their acts together. After a goalless first half the Mizoram team got their acts together and in the 51st minute took the lead as Lalamunpuia found the back of the net as he was left unmarked. But before that J&K captain Imran was shown red card by the referee and the team was playing with only 10 players. The 1-0 lead and absence of Imran gave Mizoram outfit the much-needed confidence and they started dominating the proceedings. The J&K team’s chances dented in 54th minute when Shahnawaz was also shown red card and J&K team had to play with just nine players. In 76th minute Jeje Laleekhlua got the ball past JK custodian to give Mizoram 2-0 lead. Trailing 2-0, and with just nine players on field JK players started playing an aggressive game. But they relied more in tackles rather than trying to have possession of the ball. The final nail in the coffin came in the 88th minute as H Lalrochama added his name in the scoring sheet to help Mizoram score a 3-0 victory and pocket three points.J&K team’s find of the tournament, Taufeeq Ahmad wasn’t able to play in this match as he was shown red card in previous match. Mansoor Ahmad was also shown red card in the previous match.With this loss, J&K team got out of the Santosh Trophy event. They drew first match with Madhya Pradesh 1-1 while won second match against Pondicherry 1-0.

Apeared in greater Kashmir on May 29-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=29_5_2009&ItemID=13&cat=4

Biscoe School beat SP School in tense final

U-19 Inter-School Football Tournament

Srinagar, May 28: Tyndale Biscoe continued supremacy in the under-19 inter-school football tournament, defeating SP Higher School by 2-0 in the tense final played at Biscoe School ground, here, Thursday.From the start both the teams played attacking football. In initial minutes of first half, SP School dominated and made several attempts to score. The best chance came SP way in 14th minute when strong short from Runabi missed Biscoe post by a fraction.Biscoe made counter attack but were not able to give finishing touch. In first half no goal was scored but the quality of play from both sides was of highest standard.In second half, Biscoe changed tactics and started to attack from both the wings. Their tactics paid off and SP players looked vulnerable to concede goal. In 50th minute due to mistake of SP defender, Biscoe team was able to score first goal. The ball after getting deflection from SP defender went to Owais who sent it rolling over SP goalkeeper’s head into the net to give his team much needed lead.Seeing his team trailing, SP coach started to shout and pressing his players to go for all out attack. In 60th minute, ball touched hand of Biscoe defender inside penalty area and SP bench and players asked for penalty, but referee over-ruled.As the SP was ruing the missed penalty chance, Biscoe made counter-attack and Adnan Me’raj scored second goal. The goal dented morale of SP boys who till that time were playing their heart out.As the final whistle blew, Biscoe team and their fans went into jubilation. They won the under-19 district Srinagar inter-school football title second straight time. In last year’s final, Biscoe had defeated same opponents in a tiebreaker.Expressing his happiness over the win, Biscoe School physical director, Rajesh John said, “It was a big achievement to defend the title. The match was tough as SP is a strong side and tough to beat.”“We played with aggressive approach which benefited us. Though they also played attacking football, but weak defense let them down,” he added.SP School coach said, “Loss is a loss and there are no excuses for that. Biscoe played well and I congratulate them for defending the title successfully.”Principal Biscoe School, Parvaiz Samuel Koul who was the chief guest on the occasion distributed prizes among the winners.

Apeared in Greater Kashmir on May 29-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=29_5_2009&ItemID=14&cat=4

Fozia wins Islamia College women’s cross-country run

Srinagar, May 27: Fozia Majeed won the annual Islamia College women’s cross-country run held from Nishat garden to Fore Shore Road Park, here, on Wednesday. 46 students participated in the event. Sabreena of first year finished second while Nowsheen of second year finished third. Sobiya Yaqoob and Asma Baba finished fourth and fifth respectively. Farhat Jan, Inam Sabha, Bisma Khurshid, Huda and Iqra bagged sixth to tenth positions respectively. The prize distribution ceremony was held at Foreshore Road Park in which position holders were awarded. Speaking on the occasion, the college principal, Dr Saleem Khan said, “I’m delighted to see girls participating in the event in large numbers. Though the number is far less than boy’s event but still is better than last year.” The first three position holders will represent college in the inter-college cross-country run on June 7.

Apeared In Greater Kashmir on May 28-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=28_5_2009&ItemID=7&cat=4

Women’s College MA Road Cycle Race

Ulfat Emerges Winner

Srinagar, May 27: Ulfat Jan of first year emerged as winner in the annual cycle race organized by Government Women’s College MA Road from Nehru Park to Nishat garden here on Wednesday.20 students participated in the race. As the race started, each cyclist tried her best to take lead. Those who were novices were left behind only after paddling first kilometer.After two-kilometers Ulfat, Qurat-ul-Ain and Mehreen Habib were riding neck to neck and it became difficult to guess a winner. Each cyclists tried her best to sprint away but till half-distance they were together. Seeing half the distance has been covered, Ulfat sprinted away from other two cyclists. She maintained the steady speed of 20-kilometers per hour through out the course and at times clocked 40-kilometres.She finished with a comfortable lead of 500-meters. There was close competition between Qurat-ul-Ain and Mehreen for second and third place. In the end, Qurat of first year finished second with a fraction of second ahead of third finisher Mehreen of first year. Shafiya Hassan of first year finished fourth while Bisma Fayaz finished fifth.Later the prize distribution ceremony was held at Nishat garden in which position holders were awarded trophies by the college principal, Zeenat Ara.Speaking on the occasion she said, “Though the number of participants is not that much but still I’m happy that our students are participating in the cycling. The reason for less participation is that most of the girl’s don’t know how to ride bicycle and those who know don’t have racing cycles.”“I saw participants giving away only after riding a few meters and would not like to discourage them. The participation is important and I hope next time they will come out prepared,” she added.The winner Ulfat said, “I’m happy to lift the event. With this win, I’ll get recognition of a champion in the college.”“I practice regularly and I expected to get myself into the first three finishers before race. Qurat and Bisma gave close fight till half way but at that time my regular practice helped me to get better of them. I’ll continue the practice and will try to win inter-college title,” she said.The first three position holders will be representing the college in the inter-college cycle race organized by Directorate of Physical Education and Sports department, Kashmir University on June 5.

Apeared in Greater Kashmir on may 28-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=28_5_2009&ItemID=8&cat=4

Trek With A Difference

Darasgah’s endeavor for children

Srinagar, May 25: A school imparting Quranic teaching to children on Sunday took time off by organizing a day-long trek for its students.Organised by the Darasgah Taleem-ul-Quran Hathi Khan, about 55 students took part as they tread on hilly routes on Zaberwan.They started from the Nishat Garden and were divided into four groups each led by an expert trekker, who knew the trek route. It took them about three hours to scale the top of the ridge.In the trekking route, bushes, rocks, steep slopes to slippery downhill tracks were successfully scaled by young trekkers. The groups were accompanied by the expert trekking guides of J&K Orienteering Association.Before start of the trekking, the guides gave tips to trekkers on dos and don’ts. The trekkers were instructed not to throw polythene and other non-biodegradable waste products en-route.About the event, Riyaz Ahmad, who coordinated the trekking, said, “The trekkers were in the age-group of seven to 50 years. Though up-hill trek was tough which demanded stamina and endurance, the downhill trek was more dangerous. It involved degree of risk as the trek was slippery and there were very little things en-route to support a trekker.” Despite all the adventure, the participants reached safely to the destination, he added.The event was part of Darasgah’s extra curricular activities. “It was for the first time that we organized trekking and we hope to organize more such events in the future” said Darasgah head, Muhammad Ashraf.

Apeared in Greater Kashmir May 26 -2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=26_5_2009&ItemID=3&cat=4

Greater Kashmir knockout football tournament from June 4

Srinagar, May 25: In its bid to promote football in Kashmir, Greater Kashmir is organizing Greater Kashmir knockout football tournament, which will kick-start simultaneously at different venues in Valley from June 4.To finalize the dates and all the arrangements for the mega tournament, the Greater Kashmir management and J&K Football Association office bearers led by its President Zamir Ahmad Thakur and secretary S A Hameed held a meeting at GK office here on Monday.It was decided that the Greater Kashmir knock-out football tournament will commence from June 4 at different venues. The main venue of the tournament in which about 24 teams of Srinagar and 10 teams of other districts will be participating would be the Polo Ground. The final would be played at Bakshi Stadium.After the state level tournament, Greater Kashmir is organizing All India Greater Kashmir football tournament.An organizing committee has been formed which will ensure smooth conduct and facilities for the participating teams.The Editor-in-Chief of Greater Kashmir, Fayaz Ahmad Kaloo will be the Patron-in-Chief while President, Greater Kashmir Communications Pvt Ltd, Abdul Rashid Makhdoomi will be the Patron. Peer Siraj-ud-Din has been appointed as chairman organizing committee while Professor B A Shah will be the organizing secretary. Fayaz Ahmad Sofi has been appointed assistant organizing secretary.Apart from the main body, nine members were also appointed which include, M Siddique, Majid Hyderi, Zulfikar Majid, Aijaz Mir, Tariq Ali Mir, Habib Naqash, Aman Farooq, Mubashir Khan and Imtiyaz Ahmad.A mega tournament, top teams will be fighting it out in the field. JK Bank, JK Police, SRTC, JK Forest, Iqbal Sports, Maharaja Sports will be participating with other teams of Srinagar and other districts.Speaking on the occasion, JKFA President, Zamir Thakur said, “This collaboration between Greater Kashmir and JKFA will be a milestone in the development and promotion of football in the valley. We hail Greater Kashmir for taking this initiative.”

Apeared in Greater Kashmir on May 26-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=26_5_2009&ItemID=7&cat=4

JK plays 1-1 draw against Madhya Pradesh

63RD SANTOSH TROPHY
Srinagar, May 24: In the opening match of cluster III of the 63rd Santosh Trophy, played at the St Joseph College Ground, Tiruchirappalli, Jammu and Kashmir and Madhya Pradesh played a 1-1 draw. Both the teams played attacking game but Madhya Pradesh pulled one back in the 87th minute to split points with J&K. It was Madhya Pradesh that started on an attacking note and had better ball possession in the first half. They could have found the back of the net thrice in the first half itself but they failed to capitalize on the chances that came their way. But it was last year quarterfinalists, who drew the first blood as they found the back of the net in the 42nd minute through Taufeeq. As the match entered into the lemon break with J&K leading by a solitary goal the start of the second half also had J&K keeping the momentum going and attacking at the opponents den. With 15 minutes left for the final whistle, Madhya Pradesh team got their acts together and some good moves had Athoiba Maitai scoring the equalizer in the 87th minute to spoil the dream of J&K to have winning start. But despite playing a 1-1 draw, experts are upbeat about their chances in the event. Former captain of Indian Football Team, Abdul Majeed Kakroo said JK team performed exceptionally well in the first match. “It is a good news for the team that they played a draw in such a harsh climate. They reached Chennai just last night and had to play very next day without any preparation. In coming days, they would get acclimatized with the weather conditions,” Kakroo told Greater Kashmir. “The Madhya Pradesh team had three international footballers and our boys put a brave effort. They dominated the first half, but due to harsh climate and tiredness couldn’t sustain the momentum in second half. In next match which is on May 26 against Pondicherry, I’m hopeful that they would do better,” he said. Another former international footballer, Muhammad Shafi Nari termed the team’s performance satisfactory. “After traveling such a long distance in hot and humid weather, J&K players did exceptionally well. As the team is mixture of young and experienced players, it will be useful combination in coming matches.

Apeared in greater Kashmir on May 25-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=25_5_2009&ItemID=9&cat=4

Wadoo to play in exhibition match

Srinagar, May 23: The valleys international footballer Mehraj-ud-Din Wadoo will play in the exhibition match that is going to be held next week in the Polo ground Srinagar.
In the match former celebrity footballers will be featuring alongside Wadoo and it will be sort of fun exhibition match. This was revealed by Wadoo himself during press conference in which formation of player’s welfare association was announced.
He said, “It has been long time that football lovers of valley have seen me playing in front of them. I missed big opportunity last year by not playing in Santosh trophy due to India team coaching camp.”
“Whenever I was coming here during vacations everyone was asking me when they can see me playing and I had no answer for their questions. Now this exhibition match has given me opportunity to do that” he said.
He said that in the match former celebrities and current top level footballers of valley would be participating and it will be a fun match type with no serious football involved.
“The match would sort of fun match and I am sure spectators would love. We are planning to organize it in central Polo ground next week but that can be clear only after we get required permission from Sports council authorities. These types of matches are being played in outside countries and it will be first time that all celebrity fun-match would be played in valley” he said.

Published in Greater Kashmir on May 24-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=24_5_2009&ItemID=18&cat=4

Valley footballers form association

‘We will work for interests of players along with JKFA’
Srinagar, May 23: For the welfare of state footballers the Football Players Welfare Association has been formed announcement of which was made in a press conference giving at Polo ground here on Saturday.
Valley’s International footballer Mehraj-ud-Din Wadoo will be the president of the association while as another former international footballer Dr Zahoor Haroon will be its general secretary. Sajid Yousuf Dar has been appointed as its Vice-President.
Wadoo himself announced the formation of association the aim of which is to work for the interests of players and to fight for their rights.
Wadoo said, “Number of people have confusion that the Welfare Association has been formed today. It is not true we have been thinking about it from last two years and finally today its announcement has been made. In our state there already existed one players association but from lat three to four years they not doing anything and it is because of that reason we have taken this step.”
“I have went to different countries along with Indian team and my club and everywhere I saw their existed a players association which works for players welfare and fight for their rights. The reason why their football is developed is because they care for their players. Once you give players their mental satisfaction it is only after that they will exert themselves for their clubs and states” he said.
The international footballer said that forming association is not any big thing but to keep it functioning and to achieve for it was formed is the important thing.
“There is lot of misconception among number of players that it is association created by Wadoo but that is not true. We have included almost all the current playing footballers in the association and we are welcoming all footballers from whole state to be part of it. It is only after all regions get equal representation that the actual motive of this association would be achieved” he said.
Wadoo said that till date organization is looking towards the welfare of footballers and the difficulties they are facing.
“Most of the footballers come from poor families and have no other means of earning livelihood. Till date whenever any player suffered injury he was left all alone. In valley clubs and selectors can throughout any player out of team at any time without any reason. At that time it is our association which has to stand up and fight for their rights” he said.
On the occasion Wadoo made it clear that the welfare association is not anti JandK Football Association and wants to work alongside with it for the development of football and welfare of players in state.
“Our association is not anti JKFA and we have nothing against them. We have formed only to fight against the discrimination of players. The other thing we will work for is utilization of talent. Everyone one says that we have talent but no one speaks about how to utilize that. We will select young talented players from different parts of valley and will give them special coaching and among that lot talented ones will be sent outside state.” Wadoo said.
Replying to a question about internal bickering of JKFA he said, “It is internal matter of JKFA and players have nothing to do with that. The JKFA office bearers should always take care that their matters should not harm players. This year the internal bickering of JKFA has cost our many players place in the Santosh trophy squad. Even last year’s captain, Shanawaz Iqbal has been thrown out and our main players like Bilal, Rizwan who have shown their talent at national level are not in team. This should not happen and players should not be involved in matters of JKFA.”
When asked about JK Santosh trophy squad he said, “The squad that has been sent is inexperienced, if they are going for only participation then it is good but if they want to perform then they should send our full strength team. As for myself is concerned I am suffering from groin injury due to which I could make it into the squad.”
Among others who were present on the occasion were East Bengal club player Waseem Feroze, Sajid Yousuf, Hilal Ahmad Rather and veteran footballer Muhammad Ismail Chapri.

Published in Greater Kashmir on May 24-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=24_5_2009&ItemID=17&cat=4

DPS organizes mountain run

Srinagar, May 23: The Delhi Public School, Athwajan, Saturday organized mountain running for its students from Botanical Garden to Pari Mahal here. 1300 students from class 3rd to 9th in both boys and girls’ categories participated in the run. The participants were first instructed to climb uphill upto Pari Mahal entrance and then return back downhill to Botanical Garden entrance where from the run started. Each age group was flagged off separately in order to minimize the chance of injuries that happen in the mass start events due to rush of participants. The terrain was so tough that most of the participants gave up only after having run couple of hundred meters. Instead of running, they walked. In class 9th boy’s category, Shaharyar of 9E finished first while Mamoon of 9B and Suhaib Bashir of 9D finished second and third respectively. In class 9th girl’s category, Sahar Banu of 9B finished while Mehak of 9B and Namis of 9D finished second and third respectively. In class 6th boy’s category, Umeeb of 6B and Naveed of 6C finished first and second respectively. Third place was shared by Tabish of 6C, Zaid of 6C and Jivjot of 6B. In class 7th category, Fatima of 7B, Wasiq of 7H and Aamir of 7F finished first, second and third respectively while Wasiq Ashraf of 8th C, Faizan of 8th B and Hazin of 8th D finished first, second and third respectively in class 8th category. In class 5th category, Mehak of 5A, Shafaq of 5F finished first and second respectively. Third place was shared by Dawar of 5H and Yawar of 5F respectively. In class 4th category there was no clear winner and the first place was shared between Uznaim of 4E and Saliq of 4H. Second place went to Khateeb of 4H while third place was shared between Saqib Mushtaq of 4G and Reyan of 4H. In class 3rd category, Muhammad Asif of 3A and Muqadus of 3G shared first place between them while second place was shared between Gibran of 3E and Shahzadi of 3E. Third place went to Asif of 3C. The run was flagged off by the principal, DPS, KK Sharma.

Published in Greater Kashmir on May 24 -2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=24_5_2009&ItemID=21&cat=4

Fitness level of JK players is perfect: Physio

Srinagar, May 22: The fitness level of JK Santosh trophy players is perfect and they can withstand the extreme climatic conditions of Chennai. “Our players and fit and the harsh climatic conditions will not trouble them. They would be able to cope with changes that are associated with moving from high altitude area to low lying area,” JK team physiotherapist, Ashiq Hussain, told Greater Kashmir. Ashiq has done masters in physiotherapy and has also done special training in sports medicine. Last year, he got special training in cardio rehabilitation from Apollo Hospital Ahmedabad. “This cardio rehabilitation is useful in treating players if they get any cardio problem during play. In recent years, number of players died during matches as the teams had no service of trained cardio rehabilitation,” he said. Ashiq started his association with football four years back with Eid Gah Football Academy and last year was appointed as Physio of JK Santosh Trophy team. Impressed with his work, J&K Football Association again appointed him Physio this year. Apart from that, he has also been associated with JK Forest team, which is considered among fittest team in the state. Ashiq is well aware about the conditions that JK players will face in the tournament and for that he has given special attention to players. “I know what will be the conditions there and I know how to keep players fit. During coaching camp I worked hard with players by giving them special weight training and maintaining the glucose level,” he said. The 63rd Santosh trophy is being held in Tamil Nadu from May 23 and 31 teams from all over the country would participate.

published in Greater Kashmir on May-23-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=23_5_2009&ItemID=5&cat=4

‘We’ll easily qualify from our pool’

ASHIQ MUSHTAQ

Age: 22

Position: Defender

Teams played: YMCA, Iqbal Sports-A, C and JK Forest

Employer Team: JK Forest

A highly talented defender, Ashiq plays every match with complete dedication. Ashiq started playing football with Iqbal Sports-C where he got basic coaching. After two years, Ashiq was promoted from Iqbal Sports-C to Iqbal Sports –A which is super-division league side. For Iqbal Sports, his performance in the league tournaments was good that prompted Forest to select him. From last five years, he has been an integral part of Forest, which is reckoned among top three teams of J&K.Ashiq has represented state in two under-16 national tournaments in Uttranchal and Bhopal. He has also represented state in under-19 tournament twice in Basti, Uttar Pradesh and Banaras. In Banaras national, he was captain of the JK team.Ashiq has represented his employer team four times in the prestigious All India Forest Meet and performance of JK Forest team was good in all the events. They lifted the trophy once and remained runner-up on three occasions.Mumbai and Chennai based clubs offered Ashiq to play for their team but he refused due to personal reasons. “I don’t regret my decision as my family comes first,” he said.About the Santosh Trophy and performance of JK team, he said, “The tournament is being played in Chennai were weather won’t be favourable. Moreover, it is coastal area and we come from high altitude area for that reason we will find it very difficult for first couple of days.”“I think we will easily qualify from our pool which include teams like Madhya Pradesh, Pudicherry and Mizoram. Out of three teams, only Mizoram is a strong side that we will find difficult to beat,” he said.

Published in Greater Kashmir on May 22-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=22_5_2009&ItemID=6&cat=4

‘We are a well-knit unit’

KHALID QAYOOM

Age: 21

Position: Midfield

Teams played: Gazi Sports, Safalloo, Food and Supplies, SRTC and JK Bank

Employer Team: JK Bank

At 21, Khalid has represented almost all the top teams of J&K. It speaks volumes about his talent and selectors have rewarded him by giving him place in JK Santosh Trophy squad. Khalid started his career from ML Higher Secondary School Nawakadal. Though he couldn’t participate in school national tournaments, he participated in inter-school and junior national tournaments, which helped him to groom.He represented state in under-16 junior national at Uttranchal in which JK team was able to qualify from north zone for zonal level tournament held at Goa. He also represented state in under-19 national tournament at Malerkotla, Punjab. JK qualified for semifinal and Khalid scored two goals in the event.He has represented Kashmir University twice in inter-university football tournament in Hoshiarpure and Patiala.Khalid started paying in league tournaments from Gazi Sports and then he moved to Safalloo, which is A-division side. Seeing his talent, Food and Supplies selected him and for one full season he Khalid played for them. The renowned team of the state, SRTC selected him and it was in SRTC where he got recognition. He mesmerized everyone by his quality play. Last year number one team of the state JK Bank inducted him into their squad.Khalid is happy with his selection and is hopeful that he will put a good show in the coveted Santosh Trophy event.“The selectors have shown faith on me and I’ll do my best in the tournament. I’ve only one thing in mind that is to keep my self focused on the job given,” he said.About the team, he said, “We are a well-knit unit and it would prove beneficial for the team. I’m optimistic that JK team would do well in the event.”

published In Greater Kashmir on May 22- 2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=22_5_2009&ItemID=7&cat=4

Shabir wins Islamia College cycle race

Srinagar, May 20: Shabir Ahmad Akhoon emerged winner of annual cycle race of Islamia College, held from Nehru Park to Naseem Bagh via Fore Shore road on Wednesday. The event was flagged off by the principal Islamia College, Dr Saleem Khan, and 107 cyclists participated in it. From the start Shabir took lead and maintained that through out. His closest rival Umer Nabi tried hard to catch him (Shabir) but could not match his speed. Shabir maintained the constant speed of 40-kilometers per hour and at finish line he clocked above 50-kilometers. He finished first with a timing of 22:32:39 with comfortable lead of one-kilometer against second finisher Umer Nabi. He finished with the timing of 24:30:92. Mudasir finished third with the timing of 26:30:95. Nisar Ahmad and Zahid Ahmad finished fourth and fifth respectively. Altaf Samad, Basim Dar, Aamir Feroze, Shanawaz Hussain and Sheikh Faheem finished sixth, seventh, eight, ninth and tenth respectively. Expressing happiness over the victory Shabir said, “I’m delighted to regain the championship. Last year I finished second and I desperately wanted to win this time and leave the college on winning note.” Shabir is the only cyclist of the state who has won medal at national level and he has been dominating the cycling arena from last five years. He has won 100-kilometer Tour-de-Kashmir cycling event twice and has also won numerous other cycling events.

published in Greater Kashmir on May 21- 2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=21_5_2009&ItemID=6&cat=4

Mega cricket event to be held from mid July

Kashmir Premier League

Srinagar, May 20: A cricket carnival, Kashmir Premier League, Twenty20 cricket tournament would be held in various districts of the Valley from mid-July.Aimed at exploring the enormous talent of the Valley cricketers, the mega event would be played on the pattern of Indian Premier League. The registration process is currently on and the event is expected to kick-start by mid-July. Launched by Kashmir Newsline, a Srinagar based English daily, the tournament has evoked widespread response. “Valley has got tremendous cricketing talent, but unfortunately that gets unnoticed as players get a few opportunities to show their talent. Though J&K Cricket Association organizes number of tournaments, its reach is not that wide and most of players are left behind,” said, KPL Chief Executive Officer, Shabir Hussain Buchh.“The KPL would not only help the budding cricketers, but would also provide a platform in finding out potential cricketers. We’ll shortlist talented players and would arrange coaching for them in cricket academies outside state,” Buchh said.The tournament is yet to start and organizers have already received tremendous response from hundreds of teams from far-flung areas. The matches would be held in all districts of the Valley and from each district 10 teams will qualify for the main event to be held in Srinagar.“The matches will be held in best available grounds and the facility for teams participating would be of highest standards,” he said.Asked about the involvement of JKCA in the event, Shabir said, “We don’t want to organize it on our own. We want to work along with JKCA and for that we have already sent them a proposal. The event requires manpower and expertise.”As part of its promotional input, KPL has already registered a website and is planning to bring out a monthly magazine Kashmir Premier League to cover the KPL matches. “At KPL website (www.kashmirpremierleague.com), our prospective finds would be projected so that they are noticed not only regionally, but globally as well. This would indeed give our youth a chance to make it to the national and international levels,” he added. The event has already attracted number of sponsors, “People here are ready to promote sports activities. Number of corporate houses have contacted us and are ready to sponsor the event,” he said.

Published Greater Kashmir on May 21-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=21_5_2009&ItemID=7&cat=4

‘Outside teams are not better than us’

IMRAN RAFIQUE

Age: 27

Position: Stopper

Teams played: YMCA, National Sports Dalgate, JK Forest, JK SRTC and JK Bank

Employer team: JK BANK

Hailing from Dalgate area of Srinagar, Imran started his career from National Sports Dalgate. Later he moved to YMCA, which was reckoned as top football club of the Valley then. Players like Mehraj-ud-Din Wadoo, Ishfaq Ahmad and Sajid Dar were playing in YMCA that time. From YMCA he moved to JK Forest, JK SRTC and later to his present team JK Bank. His performance always kept on improving and he brought a change in his game with each passing day. Imran didn’t participate in too many national level tournaments at school level because of injury. But still he played in two Subrotto Mukherjee national championships. With JK Bank, he has played in four Durand Cups, which can be termed as great achievement in the backdrop of historic importance that is attached with the tournament. He has also played alongside with JK Bank in B-Division and third Division national leagues. He has represented state in three Santosh Trophy events at Manipur, Faridabad and J&K. Imran has a good physique and height, which a defender requires, and he also has got good heading which a defender needs to clear ball from the box. Only thing he lacks, experts say, is man-to-man marking and if he improves it, he can be a better play. Imran has been appointed as captain of the team. There would be lot of pressure on him due to the captaincy burden. Imran says, “I thank JKFA for showing faith on me and giving me the responsibility of commanding team in the prestigious event. We have to prove a point we are capable of playing for the state.” “Outside teams are not better than us. Only thing we lack is experience and exposure. JK players have a lot of talent, but they need good guidance and coaching,” he said. About his own performance, Imran said,” I’ll give 100 percent and try to bring glory for the state.”

Published in Greater Kashmir on May 21 -2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=21_5_2009&ItemID=8&cat=4

JK to host All India Police Water Sports event from June 2

Srinagar, May 19: Jammu and Kashmir Police is hosting the prestigious 8th All India Police Water Sports Championship-2009 from June 2, in which police sports personnel from across the country would compete in the disciplines of Kayaking, Canoeing and Rowing.This is for the second time that J&K Police is hosting the event being held under the aegis of All India Police Water Sports Control Board. This was stated at a high level meeting held here today at CID Headquarters to finalize the arrangements for holding the championship. J&K Police has always been on the forefront of promoting adventure sports, especially, water sports because of the natural advantages in the State, has in terms of its mountains, beautiful river valleys and vast expanses of water bodies. Apart from creating a colorful spectacle for the locals as well as the visiting sports persons and tourists, this prestigious event would also contribute to the promotion of water sports in the country. The championship will provide an excellent opportunity to the participants to demonstrate their professional skills and also create brotherhood among different states and central police forces personnel.During the meeting, it was disclosed that 5-day championship would be inaugurated on June 2 at Dal Lake and will conclude on June 6.For smooth and successful conduct of the event, different committees have been constituted. These are organizing committee, reception, accommodation, transport, souvenir, printing and publicity, jury of appeal, and opening and closing committees. The organizing committee will have 14 members. They include DGP (CID), Dr. Ashok Bhan, IGP, Jammu, K. Rajendra, IGP, (Headquarters), P. L. Gupta, IGP (Personnel), Ram Lubhaya, IGP Crime, S. M. Sahai, IGP, Home Guards, Dilbagh Singh, Director SSG, Raja Aijaz Ali, IGP Security, A K Gupta, IGP Traffic, M A Shah, IGP (Mod), Z H Chisti, IGP, Kashmir, Dr B Srinivas, IGP Police Housing Corporation, Ravinder Kotwal, IGP, Railways, M A Anjum, and IGP (CID), Farooq Ahmed. Besides, Inspector General of Police (Armed), Sheikh Owais will be the Organizing Secretary of the Committee.The Jury of Appeal will have 6 members. They are DGP (CID), IGP (Armed), J&K, Join Director IB, Principal PTS, Manigam, one member each from Rowing Association and Kayaking & Canoeing Association.IGP Jammu Zone K. Reajendra will be the Chairman of the reception and accommodation committee at Jammu and IGP Kashmir, Dr. B. Srinivas will be the Chairman of a similar committee at Srinagar. The committee at Jammu will have 12 members and at Srinagar 10 members.IGP, Security, A. K. Gupta will head the transport and security committee which will have 10 members.Media Relations and Publicity Committee will be headed by IGP (CID), Farooq Ahmed, which will have 6 members. IGP (Armed), Sheikh Owais will head the Opening, Closing and Hospitality Committee, having 11 members and IGP Crime, Mr. S. M. Sahai will head the Invitation, Souvenir and Printing Committee having 6 members.

Published in Greater Kashmir on May 20-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=20_5_2009&ItemID=3&cat=4

JK Santosh Trophy squad leaves for Tamil Nadu

Srinagar, May 19: The 19-member JK squad left for Tamilnadu on Tuesday to participate in 63rd Santosh Trophy tournament to be held from May 23. 31 teams from across India would participate in the coveted event. The JK team comprise of two goalkeepers, seven defenders, seven midfielders and four forwards. Imran Rafique is the captain of the team. In the forward team will be lead by Valley’s international footballer, Ishfaq Ahmad but he will join the team from second match. The other three forwards include Zubair Ahmad of JK Bank, Altaf Ahmad of Maharaja Sports and Taufeeq Ahmad of JK Bank. Midfield comprise of highly talented players like Tameem Ahmad of Iqbal Sports, Shahnawaz of JK Bank, Gulzar Ahmad of JK Police, Satwinder Singh of JK Bank, Arun Pal Singh of Engineers club, Khalid Qayoom and Wasim Yousuf both of JK Bank. The defence of JK team will be lead by its skipper Imran Rafique of JK Bank, Hasib of JK bank, Ashiq Mushtaq of JK Forest, Sameer Ahmad of JK Forest, Tahir Ghulam of Food and Supplies, Danny Bhurat of Churchill Brothers and Mansoor Ahmad of HAL Bangalore.There are two goalkeepers in the team which include vice-captain, Vikram Jeet Singh and Arshad Ali of JK Forest. Coach Intikhab Aalam, manager, BA Basharat, and physiotherapist, Dr Ashiq Hussain, accompany the team. JK has been kept in Cluster III along with Mizoram, Madhya Pradesh and Pudicherry and they will play their all group matches at St Joseph College, Tiruchirappalli. In first match, they will lock horns with Madhya Pradesh on May 24 while on May 26 they will take on Pudicherry. In their last group match, JK will be against Mizoram.

publihsed in greaterkashmir on May 20-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=20_5_2009&ItemID=4&cat=4

Midfielder par excellence

GULZAR AHMAD

Age: 23

Position: Midfielder

Teams played: Royal Sports, Maharaja and JK Police

Employer team: JK Police

After missing to find his place in last year’s Santosh Trophy, Gulzar Ahmad has found his name in the team for this season. Gulzar started his career when he joined Royal Sports Club Gojwara. Then, he joined Maharaja Sports where he hogged the limelight. Finally Gulzar was selected for JK Police team and during last four years, he is performing brilliantly. The JK Police team banks on his brilliant performance. For any team to be stronger, it needs to have strong midfield. The strength of the team relies on strong mid-fielders who changes course pf a game any moment. Gulzar leads the strong midfield of JK Police. He has achieved success in the last few years and today he is reckoned among the top midfielders of the state. Being a new face in JK football, Gulzar has played in less national tournaments than his counterparts, but still the tournaments in which he represented the state, he got praise from the former players and his coaches. He has so far participated in two under-21 national tournaments, which were held in Uttranchal and Ambala respectively. He has also represented JK Police in various national level tournaments and also in three All India Police Meets. Apart from strengthening the midfield, Gulzar has the knack of scoring goals at crucial junctions. It is this ability that makes him one of the important players in J&K Santosh Trophy team. So far Gulzar has not played in any Santosh Trophy tournament and this is going to be his first appearance. Gulzar is the player who always surprises the opponents which makes him different. He has good physique that makes him perfect midfielder. About the tournament, Gulzar says, “I was expecting my selection last year for the tournament but in the final list I was dropped. It is going to be my first Santosh Trophy tournament and it is a dream come true for me as every aspiring footballer wants to represent the state in this prestigious event.” “The pressure is high but with my hard work I can overcome that. As I’ve done in past, I can do it now. I only concentrate on my work and that is the reason I’ve always performed well” Gulzar added.

Published in Greater Kashmir on May 20 -2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=20_5_2009&ItemID=5&cat=4

‘I’m hopeful we would qualify from our pool’

VIKRAM JEET SINGH

Age: 29

Position: Goalkeeper

Teams played: Vijay Club, TATA Football Academy and JK Bank

Employer team: JK Bank

Vikram can rightly be termed as number one goalkeeper of present J&K team. He started his career with Vijay Club Jammu and was later adopted by India’s renowned academy, TATA Football Academy Jamshedpur. At TATA Academy he played from 1995 to 1998. During those years, nobody in JK knew about him, but once he started to play in the state, everyone was puzzled with his talent. He became instant hit among football fans and players. With TATA Academy, Vikram also toured to Norway, Denmark and Germany. It was tour of one month and during that period Academy played matches against the clubs of respective countries. During that tour, Vikram also got offer from the FC Koln Club of Germany but he couldn’t play due to personal reasons. After coming back to J&K, he was offered a job by JK Bank and since then he is an integral part of the team. In state, Vikram has added new dimensions to goalkeeping. He showed new skills and techniques, which he learnt at TATA Academy. As a player, Vikram has represented state on one occasion in under-19 level at Manipur and in under-21 level he played in three national championships at Jammu, Mandiya and Ambala. In Jammu national, J&K was winner and in Mandiya national, Vikram was captain of the team. He has also played in Durand Cup and other national level tournaments like B-Division, third Division, LG Cup and All India Bank Meet. Experts say that Vikram has good capabilities of a goalkeeper. He uses his technique and art of goalkeeping that he had learnt at Tata Academy. As a goalkeeper, he has got good control over ball, excellent reaction time, good gripping and also has got the ability to judge the pace of opposite player which goalkeeper requires in tackling. He is considered as big match player and has always showed his worth in important matches. As a person he is sober, but on field he is aggressive. Vikram has been appointed as vice-captain of the team and he hopes that team will do well in the tournament. “We have talented players in the team and I’m hopeful we would qualify from our pool,” he said.

published in Greater Kashmir on http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=20_5_2009&ItemID=6&cat=4

JK footballers to form players association

Srinagar, May 18: In order to safeguard the interests of players, the valley footballers have decided to form an association which would also look into welfare of the players. This was disclosed to Greater Kashmir by soccer star and Indian football team member Meraj-ud-din Wadoo, who and other players had a meeting at Polo Ground and SP college grounds. The working of the association will be announced on May 23 at Polo Ground. It will be named JK Football Players Welfare Association. “We had a meeting with the soccer players of the Valley to form the association which will work for the welfare of the players,” said Wadoo. The body will be affiliated with Football Players Association of India. The captain of Indian football team, Baichung Bhutia, is president of Football Players Association of India while Wadoo is its general secretary. “All the footballers of the state irrespective of which team or club they are playing will be given representation. We are requesting all players to register themselves with us and be present at the Polo Ground during official announcement of the body,” he said.
published in greaterkashmir on may -19-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=19_5_2009&ItemID=1&cat=4

‘Team has good mixture of young, senior players’

WASEEM YOUSUF

Age: 20

Position: Mid Field

Teams played: Makhdoomia Sports, Maharaja Sports, JK Forest and JK Bank

Employer Team: JK Bank

Waseem inherited football from his father Muhammad Yousuf Makhdoomi who was a well-known footballer of his times. Waseem was imparted basic coaching by his father. He started playing professional football from Makhdoomia Sports Club and within no time attracted attention of big clubs of the valley. Super Division league side, Maharaja Sports, selected Waseem and he impressed every one with his skills. In premier league, he was selected by one of the top football sides of the valley, JK Forest team. Playing for JK Forest, within and outside state, Waseem finally joined JK Bank this year.Waseem first represented state in 47th national school games in 2000-01 at West Bengal. In Subroto Mukherjee Cup he has represented state twice in 2002 and 2003.After that he represented state in two school national games in 2004 and 2005 in Bangalore and Srinagar. He also represented state in 41st junior national championship. He has twice represented Kashmir University in inter-university football tournaments.Waseem was trained in Sports Authority of India academy for a year. Apart for junior and school national, he has played in various national level tournaments with JK Forest and JK Bank.Experts count Waseem as highly talented player and say and in coming years he will be reckoned among the top footballers of the state. Currently he is in his best form and that can prove beneficial for JK team.The only negative about him is that he quickly diverts his attention from the game, otherwise he has all the abilities, which a midfielder should possess, experts say.About JK team’s chances in upcoming Santosh Trophy, he said, “I’m hopeful we would put a good show as the team has a good mixture of young and senior players. We had a nice practice at the coaching camp.”

Apeared In Greater Kashmir on May 18 -2009-http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=18_5_2009&ItemID=5&cat=4

‘I’m optimistic Team would do better’

TAUFEEQ AHMAD DAR

Age: 20

Position: Striker

Teams : Maharaja Sports, JK Forest and JK Bank

Employer team: JK Bank

If in coming years, Kashmir’s football touches heights, players like Taufeeq will have to play an important role. Former players term Taufeeq as future poster boy of JK football. Taufeeq came on to the football scene from his school. He has played two under-16 national championships in Uttranchal and Jammu. In Uttranchal national, J&K was the winner and Taufeeq was inspirational for his team. He was top scorer. In Jammu national, he played only two matches and scored six goals. Due to injury, he had to sit out of the remaining matches. During the tournament, he was selected for north zone team, but due to injury couldn’t participate. In under-16 age group, he was selected for the Indian camp trial, but due to the blockade of Srinagar-Jammu highway he was not able to attend. At under-19 level, he has participated in two national championships, held at Banaras and Punjab. In Banaras national, Taufeeq scored three goals and helped his team to reach to semifinal and in following national at Punjab, Taufeeq led the JK team. Like a true leader, he again showed brilliant performance and scored three goals. This time again like previous national, JK lost in semifinal to Punjab.In under-21 national championship, Taufeeq has represented state once. He was also selected for under-19 Indian camp and was among the 30 probable. But in the final list he was not included.Taufeeq started his career in league football from Maharaja Sports. His performance was brilliant for the Club and later JK Forest selected him and for two years he was an integral part of the team. If JK Forest is currently among the top teams, Taufeeq has played a crucial part. Seeing his contribution towards Forest team, JK Bank recruited him this year.Taufeeq made Santosh Trophy debut last year. He played well in the matches in which he was given chance.Experts have high opinion about Taufeeq. They say as a player he has almost all the qualities, which a striker needs. He has sound physique, good ball control, fitness level, presence of mind and the scoring ability. Taufeeq has also got a surprising element, which makes him more dangerous for opposite teams. Experts believe that Taufeeq can turn out star performer for the team in the tournament.About JK team’s chances in upcoming Santosh Trophy, he said, “Last year was debut for me and I got a few chances to play. This year, I’m hopeful I’ll get better chances. The team comprises of talented players and I’m optimistic we would do better.”

Apeared In Greater Kashmir on May 18 : http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=18_5_2009&ItemID=6&cat=4

JK squad for Santosh Trophy announced

Imran Rafique Appointed Captain, Vikram Jeet Vice-Captain

GK NEWS NETWORK
Srinagar, May 17: The J&K Football Association on Sunday announced the final list of 20- players for the Santosh Trophy, which would be held in Tamil Nadu from May 23.The JK team comprise of two goalkeepers, seven defenders, seven midfielders and four forwards. Imran Rafique was appointed as captain. The team comprises of youngsters with a mix of three highly experienced players: Ishfaq Ahmad, Vikram Jeet and Imran.In the forward, team will be led by Valley’s international footballer, Ishfaq Ahmad. But he will join the team from second match. The other three forwards include Zubair Ahmad of JK Bank, Altaf Ahmad of Maharaja Sports and Taufeeq Ahmad of JK Bank.The strength of team lies in midfield as it comprise of highly talented players like Tameem Ahmad of Iqbal Sports, Shahnawaz of JK Bank, Gulzar Ahmad of JK Police, Satwinder Singh of JK Bank, Arun Pal Singh of Engineers club, Khalid Qayoom and Wasim Yousuf both of JK Bank.The defence of JK team will be led by skipper Imran Rafique of JK Bank and comprises of Hasib of JK Bank, Ashiq Mushtaq of JK Forest, Sameer Ahmad of JK Forest, Tahir Ghulam of Food and Supplies, Danny Bhurat of Churchill Brothers and Mansoor Ahmad of HAL Bangalore.Two goalkeepers are vice-captain, Vikram Jeet Singh and Irshad Ali of JK Forest. JK Police team chief coach, Intikhab Aalam, will coach the team while, as BA Basharat will be manager. Dr Ashiq Hussain will be physiotherapist of team.The selection panel comprised former international footballer, Muhammad Shafi Nari, Zahoor Ahmad Khan and Intikhab Aalam.The 63rd Santosh Trophy would be held in Tamil Nadu from May 23 and 31 teams from across India would participate. JK team would leave from the Valley on May 19.After the selection list was out, the JKFA resident secretary, Prof Bashir said, “All the player was given equal chance. As most of the players in trial were new they were disciplined and gave their best.”About the chances of the team to win the coveted event, he said, “Team comprise of young talented players and we hope for the best.”JK has been kept in Cluster III along with Mizoram, Madhya Pradesh and Pudicherry and they will play their all group matches at St Joseph College, Tiruchirappalli. In first match, they will lock horns with Madhya Pradesh on May 24 while on May 26 they will take on Pudicherry. In their last group match, JK will be against Mizoram.

Apeared in Greater Kashmir in May 18 : http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=18_5_2009&ItemID=7&cat=4

’Goal machine’ can play major role for JK team in Santosh Trophy

GK NEWS NETWORK

With just 7-days left for 63rd edition of Santosh Trophy, J&K Team is practicing hard in a coaching camp at Srinagar. The final team would be announced on May 17 and they would leave for Tamil Nadu next day.

ZUBAIR AHMAD

Age: 19

Position: Striker

Teams played: AS Academy, Solina Sports, Mohun Bagan Academy, JK Police, JK Bank

Employer Team: JK Police

At young age, Zubair is not a new face in JK football as he has achieved lot of success. He started his career with Amar Singh Club Academy where from he moved to Solina Club. He mesmerized football fans of the valley with his skills. He shortly attracted attention of teams and selectors. He was recruited by the JK Police and in 2007 and 2008, he was Police team’s goal machine. If JK Police dominated the football arena of the valley in 2007 and 2008, credit goes to Zubair. Seeing his talent, JK Bank selected Zubair in 2009. He last year was part of JK Santosh Trophy squad and was able to score two goals in the tournament. In his first school national game, he scored six goals for the state and was also selected for the school national India trial. In the proceeding school national games, he scored four goals and in under-19 school games, he scored one goal. In the prestigious Subroto Mukherjee Cup, he was instrumental and scored four goals. As for sub junior a national championship is concerned, he has represented state on two occasions and in junior national championship as well. In under-21 national championship he has represented state on one occasion. Zubair was also selected for the Mohun Bagan Academy, but he was not able to stay for long due to health reasons. Experts term Zubair as future of JK football. They say that at young age he is among the top strikers of the Valley and can play a major role for JK team in the upcoming Santosh Trophy.. He has got good ball control and dribbling skills. He has lot of confidence and is naturally gifted striker. Like all the big strikers, he is the man who always remains at right place at right moment. The only thing he needs to improve is his physique and left moment otherwise there is no striker better than him currently in the Valley, experts say. About the chances of JK team in upcoming Santosh Trophy, he said, “We are a young and talented team and have high hopes of doing well in the event. Though I represented JK team last year, playing outside state is different. Last year we played in front our own people, who supported us. This year support would be almost nil. We have to play as a team, if we have to win the coveted event.”

Apeared in May 17 : http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=17_5_2009&ItemID=8&cat=4

Improve sports infrastructure in Valley: Wadoo

Srinagar, May 16: The International footballer of the Valley, Mehraj-ud-Din Wadoo, Saturday said he was keen to promote the sports activities in Kashmir. Speaking at the prize distribution function of state arm-wrestling championship at Islamia College, he said, “I’m a footballer, but I want to promote other games also. I know about arm wrestling through movies and had not imagined that it is being played in the Valley.” Wadoo stressed on need of upgrading the sports infrastructure and facilities in the valley. “J&K Government needs to upgrade infrastructure and facilities for sports. There is an urgent need to give special attention towards sports and it is only after that our players can shine at national level,” he said.

Apeared In Greater Kashmir on May 17 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=17_5_2009&ItemID=6&cat=4

Imran lifts champion of champions’ title

State Arm Wrestling Championship

GK NEWS NETWORK
Srinagar, May 16: Imran of Rich Life Health Club Bemina continued dominance in the arm wrestling arena of the state by lifting his second consecutive champion of champion’s title at Islamia College here on Saturday. To watch the matches on concluding day, large number of spectators had thronged the venue. The day began with remaining bouts of under-70 kilogram category in which there were eight arm-wrestlers. After quarterfinal bouts, first semifinal was played between Mudasir Qayoom of Body Care and Waseem Wahab of Islamia College in which Waseem emerged winner. In second semifinal, Suhail of Fort City Sports Club defeated Amir of Islamia College. Waseem Wahab after a tough and time consuming fight defeated Suhail in final and bagged gold medal. Mudasir Qayoom won bronze. After-70 kilogram category it was turn of last individual weight category matches. In that 38 arm wrestlers participated. After the tough and close competitions that stretched nearly for one and half hour, Younis of Heavy-Duty and Majaz of City Barbell Gym booked place for the final. In final, Younis defeated Majaz. In the fight both the wrestlers injured their arms. Due to injury, Younis was not even able to receive his medal and trophy. Imityaz of Hussaini Public School bagged Bronze medal. In the champion of champions competition, winner of each weight category compete between each other. In final of champion of champions’ bout, Imran was against Waseem Wahab. The match was best of three. In first bout, Imran easily pinned Waseem but in second bout Waseem showed resistance. In the end the experience paid off as he wasted the energy of Waseem and did not exert much of power. Seeing Waseem loosing, Imran the top technique in pinning him. As soon as he pinned Waseem, his supporters jumped on to the stage and took him on shoulders. Principal Islamia College, Dr Saleem Khan, was chief guest on the occasion while international footballer of the Valley, Mehraj-ud-Din Wadoo, was guest of honour. They distributed prizes among the winners. Speaking on the occasion Dr Saleem said, “It is great to see our youth participating in different sporting disciplines. Our College has always been on forefront to promote sports. We have kept our doors open for every one for organizing any event.” About the arm-wrestling, he said, “I’m sure that the game has bright future ahead in the Valley.” Earlier on Friday in under-52 category Fahadullah, Faizan and Atif Feroz of Linton Hall bagged first, second and third positions respectively. In under-57 kilogram category, Syed Qaiser of Muscle Mania gym, Zubair of Rich Life Bemina and Ayas of Linton Hall bagged first, second third positions respectively. In 86-kilogram category, Abdul Qayoom of Body Top gym, Faizan of Green Valley and Mehran of Green Valley bagged first, second and third positions respectively. In under-105 kilogram, Arsalan Wani, Zaid Bin Reyaz and Sajid Majid of Green Valley won first, second and third prizes respectively. In under-95 kilogram category, Hilal Ahmad of Body Fuel gym Ganderbal outclassed Minal of Green Valley. In under-78 kilogram category, Imran, Umar Iqbal of Islamia College and Ajaz of Rich Life gym bagged first three positions respectively. The first two positions holders in each category would be representing state in national arm wrestling championship to be held in Srinagar next month.

Apeared in greater on May 17 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=17_5_2009&ItemID=7&cat=4

Green Valley, Linton Hall dominate arm wrestling event

GK NEWS NETWORK
Srinagar, May 15: The arm wrestlers of Green Valley Education Institute and Linton Hall School dominated the first day of competition in the state arm wrestling championship at Islamia College, here on Friday. The competition kicked off with under-52 bouts. In that category, first three positions went to arm wrestlers of Linton Hall. Fahadullah bagged Gold while Faizan and Atif Feroz bagged Silver and Bronze medals respectively. In under-57 kilogram category 16 arm wrestlers participated. After hard fought battle, Syed Qaiser of Muscle Mania gym defeated Zubair of Rish Life Bemina in the final bout. Third place went to Ayas of Linton Hall. In heavyweight category final bout, finalists Abdul Qayoom of Body Top gym and Faizan of Green Valley exchanged heated words. The bout stretched for seven minutes in which athletes tried their best. In the end, Qayoom emerged winner. After the bout was over, both the athletes hugged each other showing sign of sportsmanship. Mehran of Green Valley bagged third place. In under-105 kilogram category, the heaviest weight category, there were only three competitors. Arsalan Wani of Green Valley gave no chance to his opponents and bagged first prize. Zaid Bin Reyaz and Sajid Majid of same School bagged seconds and third places respectively. In under-95 kilogram category there were only two competitors. In the bout Hilal Ahmad of Body Fuel gym Ganderbal outclassed Minal of Green Valley. In under-78 category, which is reckoned as toughest category of arm wrestling event, as all champions fall in the same category. Last year’s champion of champions, Imran of Rich Life Bemina bagged first place by pinning hand of Umar Iqbal of Islamia College. Ajaz of Rich Life gym bagged third place by defeating Majid of same club in the match played for third and fourth place. In under-70 kilogram category, Amir of Natipora, Salman of Green Valley, Suhail of Fort City Club, Feroz Dar of Islamia College, Mudasir Qayoom of Body Care gym, Mudasir of DPS and Qamran Nisar of Kashmir University booked their places for third round. Special competitions of sub-junior 35-kilogram category were also held. Backed by huge support from the spectators, little competitors gave out their best. Muhammad Muzamil Salmani, Muhammad Rafeeq Wani and Junaid Khan all from Government Middle School Kalamdan Pora bagged first, second and third positions respectively. The competitions of under-63 category in which 35 competitors are participating would be held on Saturday at 10 am. The remaining bouts of under-70 category and champion of champions would also be held on Saturday.

Apeared In Greater Kashmir On May 16http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=16_5_2009&ItemID=7&cat=4

Arm wrestling event starts at Islamia College

GK NEWS NETWORK
Srinagar, May 14: The state arm wrestling championship started at Physical Education Department Hall of Islamia College, here on Thursday. On the inaugural day, registration and weigh in of participants was done. Around 120 arm wrestlers from different districts of the state registered themselves. The competitions would begin on Friday at 10 am. “After seeing rush of participants, we decided to do only registration and weigh in today. The competitions would be held on Friday and Saturday. The registration was done from under-52 kilogram category to 110-kilogram category,” J&K Arm Wrestling Association general secretary, Reyaz Ahmad, said. The first two position holders in each weight category would be selected for national event that is would be held in Srinagar from June 19-23.

apeared in greater kashmir on May 15

‘JK team has right combination of senior, young players’

With 63rd Santosh Trophy Scheduled To Be Held In Tamil Nadu From May 23, JK Team Has Been Shortlisted And Is Undergoing A Coaching Camp In Srinagar. The Final Team Would Be Announced Shortly.
TAMEEM AHMAD BHAT

AGE: 24

POSITION: Midfield

TEAMS PLAYED: Young Iqbal, Iqbal Sports, JKSRTC and BSNL

EMPLOYER TEAM: BSNL

Tameem is ranked among the top footballers of the Valley. He has been unfortunate of not having represented state in any Santosh Trophy tournaments till date. He was shortlisted in 2007, but was ruled out due to injury and last year he withdraw his name from trials as he had to participate in the Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) trials at Jammu. He lost opportunity to represent state in front of its own people, but got the job in BSNL football team.“It was difficult decision that time to withdraw, but for livelihood, I had to make that decision. I couldn’t participate in the event but I got job in BSNL team,” he said.Tameem started playing football at young age and participated in various local tournaments in his early days. “It was in 1999 when I joined Young Iqbal football team and within a year I was appointed as captain. Under my leadership team won B-division league and qualified for A-division,” Tameem said.Later he joined Iqbal Sports, a super division side and it was during that period he showed his real talent. Seeing his leadership quality and command over other players, Iqbal Sports appointed him captain and under his leadership club achieved many milestones. In 2004, JKSRTC selected him.During his stay at SRTC, Tameem achieved all the millstones for which every Valley footballer aspires. With SRTC, he won state championship and remained runner-up in league tournaments. Apart from that they also lifted number of trophies all over the state. Tameem is known as big match player and whenever SRTC was playing against arch rivals JK Bank he gave best performance.In 2008 Tameem got offer from I-league club Mumbai FC, but he declined that due to personal reasons.“Everyone told me that I made wrong decision, but my family comes first and Allah rewarded me with job in BSNL,” he said.In his first year for JK BSNL team, in All Indian BSNL meet, Tameem gave one of his best performances. In the tournament he scored nine goals and with the help of that team was able to win three matches. He was adjudged as player of the tournament.As JKBSNL team played only in national events, Tameem has again joined Iqbal Sports in Super Diviosn league.In national events, Tameem has represented state in various junior national events. In under-16 level, he has represented the state twice. First time in Delhi and second as captain in Kerala. He has also played in Subroto Mukherjee Cup alongside Mehraj-ud-Din Wadoo and Ishfaq Ahmad. In under-19 age group, he represented state in Kerala and Jammu. He has represented state in under-21 level twice held at Haldiwani and Haryana. In both events, JK was able to qualify upto semifinal stage. Last year, he also represented Kashmir University in inter-university football tournament in Gadwall University, Uttranchal in which KU qualified to quarterfinal. Apart from that he has played in various national level open tournaments alongside SRTC team.He has also excelled in seven-A-side format football, which is shorter version of game. In last year’s Vice-Chancellors Seven-A-Side football tournament, Tameem was adjudged as best player and was awarded the golden boot award. Experts say Tameem is a skilled player. He has got good control over ball, good distribution skills, good drilling ability and excellent match temperament. In pressure situations, he never loses cool, which makes him a dangerous player.His only shortcoming is that he is a bit slow and lacks tackling ability. If he concentrates on it, there is no better player in valley than him, experts say.About chances of JK team in the Santosh Trophy, he said, “Team has right combination of young and senior players and I’m confident we would do well. I would give my best for the team.”

Apeared in Greater Kashmir on May 15 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=15_5_2009&ItemID=21&cat=4

‘If we play as team, we can beat anyone’

With 63rd Santosh Trophy Scheduled To Be Held In Tamil Nadu From May 23, JK Team Is Practicing Hard In A Coaching Camp In Srinagar. The Final Team Would Be Announced Shortly.

SAMEER HUSSAIN

AGE: 24

POSITION: Midfield

TEAMS PLAYED: JNV Budgam, NVS Delhi, Maharaja Sports, JK Bank

CURRENT TEAM: JK Forest

Sameer is popularly known as Chetri for his quickness like national team striker, Sunil Chetri. Hailing from Budgam district, he started playing football from his school team (Jawahar Navodaya Vidyaliya). During school days, he was selected for the All India JNV tournament. He represented the School in Manipur national event where he showed brilliant performance due to which he was selected for All India NVS team. He played there till he passed matric.Sameer has represented state in two under-19 national events in Himachal Pradesh – in which JK qualified their pool and he scored two goals – and second in under-19 national in Haldiwani in which JK team qualified for semifinal. He has also represented the state in two under-21 national tournaments held at Uttranchal and Delhi.Sameer started playing in league tournaments from Maharaja Sports and within short period attracted the attention of football lovers with his dazzling speedy runs. Seeing talent in the player, JK Forest recruited him. Along with other young players of the team he helped Forest team to regain its place in state football arena. Currently JK Forest is ranked along with the teams like JK Bank and JK SRTC.Sameer was recruited by JK Bank, but he rejoined Forest after having brief stint with the Bank.His speed and dribbling skills separate him with other players and midfielders. The most important feature of Sameer is that he never looses hope and always looks to score or make way for his teammates.Experts say that Sameer’s strength is his consistency .He is natural right footer and can swing ball both ways. He has got surprise element in him, which at many times proves lethal for the opponents. He has got canny knack of scoring goals at important moments. The only thing that Sameer needs to improve is to work on his left foot, which is little bit shaky. Sameer says JK has good chance to qualify from the pool. “We have talented players in the team. Our pool is not that strong as we are placed along with Pudicherry, Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram. Among the three teams, only Mizoram is threat to us but if we play like a team then we can easily beat them.”About his own performance, Sameer said, “It is my debut Santosh Trophy and I know its importance. I’m confident that I’ll be able to put on good show. I’m really working hard in the coaching camp.”

Apeared in greater kashmir on May 14 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=14_5_2009&ItemID=7&cat=4