When most of us were busy cheering up Indian Cricket team in the Champions Trophy, some of our sportspersons were hailing us gold medals and creating a history. 

From June 15 to 18^th, the World Games were held in Kathmandu, Nepal. The event witnessed a win-win victory for Indian men and women Throwball players, who bagged gold medals for the country. Amongst others were 43 different competitions inviting participants from 11 countries.

The women’s team had defeated Pakistan with 15-13, 15-12, while men’s team had beaten up Bangladesh for the title by winning over with 15-13, 15-12. The women’s team was lead by Krishna Induja. Most of the players of both the teams come from Telangana state.

Throwball proliferated in India in the 1940s as a women’s game. The first national level championship of throwball was held in 1980. Since then many enthusiasts emerged including Jagat Singh Chauhan, P. Jagan Mohan Goud who attempted to popularize the sport.

Now in 2017, the men and women teams have won the title in the World game. Sharing the joys and pains of playing throwball, Captain of Women’s team Krishna Induja says, “Yes, there’s the lack of publicity for the game, but we are very excited about this victory.”

The medal is lighting up the hope in these players. “This victory will be a huge push for our request for funds from the government. With some effort, the Telangana state government is recognizing us, though we are yet to be allotted funds. The aim is to get recognition and support on the national level too,” says P. Jagan Mohan Goud, Joint Secretary, Throwball Federation of India.

In the women team were players Sharon, Greeshma Reddy and M. Deepika who fought against all the odds to follow their passion. Sharon says, “Though I wanted to take up the job, I couldn’t give up on this game because it gives me a sense of being alive. I call it my first love.”

17-year-old Greeshma Reddy praises her college administration, saying, “The College supports me fully and in return only expects me to represent it in inter-college and university tournaments.”

With the medal in their hands and fresh dreams in their hearts, these women are unleashing their triumph over all difficulties. On her victory in the World Games, Deepika’s trainer Mr. Sasikanth Ballal says, “Unlike cricket and other popular sporting events, the little-known throwball has virtually no takers, and her team’s victory should be attributed to the dedication and hard work.”

Thank you for bagging us these medals. We truly laud your victory!!