Sri Vijaya Puram, April 17: The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are buzzing with the crackle of spiking balls and roars of team spirit as the Sports Department Volleyball Tournament–2025 kicked off in high-energy fashion at the Multipurpose Hall of Netaji Stadium Sports Complex.
Organized by the Department of Sports, the tournament is a vibrant convergence of youth clubs, government and private institutions, and sports clubs, giving local volleyball talent a professional stage to showcase their game.
A total of 36 teams – 25 in the men’s division and 11 in the women’s, are vying for top honors in this island-wide face-off. The tourney, slated to run across several match days, promises to not only ignite competitive fervor but also strengthen the community’s sporting ethos.
The tournament was inaugurated by Vikram Singh, Director (Sports), who encouraged players to compete with fairness, focus, and sportsmanship. “This tournament isn’t just about winning or losing, it’s about learning, growing, and staying fit,” he said while addressing the gathering.
Gyan Sheel Dubey, Deputy Director of Education (Personnel) and HoO, Controlling Officer (Sports), welcomed all participants, extending his best wishes for a successful tournament.
The opening matches didn’t disappoint. In the men’s category, Green Krakers defeated Rage Spiker in a straight set clash with a 25–20, 25–22 victory. On the women’s side, Genesis XII faced off against Spike Queens in an evenly matched contest.
Such inter-institutional events provide an essential platform for young athletes to experience structured play, team coordination, and the spirit of healthy competition. With island geography often limiting exposure, tournaments like these serve as critical sporting milestones.
As matches continue through the week, winners in both categories will be crowned champions of the 2025 tournament, earning not just bragging rights but potential eligibility for larger regional-level competitions.
With adrenaline pumping and crowds cheering, the tournament has once again reaffirmed that sports on the islands are not just a pastime, but a passion.
