Panjim, Goa | September 2026: The Goa Guardians have officially set the wheels in motion for Prime Volleyball League (PVL) Season 5, bringing together leading figures from Goa’s sporting, government and business communities for an evening celebrating the growth and future of volleyball in the state.
With PVL Season 5 scheduled to begin on November 30, 2026, the Panjim gathering brought together PVL CEO Joy Bhattacharjya, representatives and owners from all 10 PVL franchises, members of Goa’s sporting fraternity and prominent members of the state’s business community.
The event was attended by Shri Rohan Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, Information Technology, Electronics & Communications and Printing & Stationery, Government of Goa, and Shri Rohit Monserrate, Mayor of the Corporation of the City of Panaji.
Representing the Goa Guardians were Director and Owner Raju Chekuri, members of the franchise leadership, players and representatives from Netenrich Inc. Former India international Abhijit Bhattacharya, along with Goa Guardians players Prince Malik and Aravindhan, were also present.
Sport and tourism at the heart of Goa’s vision
The presence of Minister Rohan Khaunte opened discussions on the wider role of sport in Goa, particularly in encouraging youth participation and strengthening sports tourism.
“Goa has evolved beyond being just a sun, sand and sea destination, and sport is becoming an important part of that journey,” Khaunte said, highlighting the potential of the Prime Volleyball League to create opportunities for both Goa and Indian volleyball.
He also expressed the larger ambition of seeing Indian volleyball reach the Olympic stage, stressing that regardless of which team wins, the ultimate objective should be the growth of Indian volleyball.
KL Rahul’s signed volleyball unveiled
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of a volleyball signed by Goa Guardians co-owner and Indian cricket star KL Rahul.
Rahul’s association with the franchise has helped bring additional national attention to the Goa Guardians and the sport of volleyball. The signed ball served as a symbolic connection between the franchise’s ambitions at the national level and its roots in Goa.
Goa Guardians unveil new home jersey
The evening also marked the first unveiling of the Goa Guardians’ home jersey for PVL Season 5.
Inspired by Goa’s coastal identity, the jersey features wave-like patterns and fluid design elements that reflect the movement, energy and character associated with both Goa and volleyball.
The franchise also announced Boldfit as its official apparel partner for the upcoming season.
Building volleyball beyond the PVL team
For the Goa Guardians, the focus extends beyond the senior professional team.
The franchise has been investing in volleyball infrastructure, grassroots development and youth competitions in Goa. One such initiative is its partnership with Don Bosco Oratory, Panjim, where the indoor facility was recently refurbished with a new wooden basketball and volleyball court.
The franchise has also launched the Guardians Trophy U21 Volleyball Tournament, bringing together youth teams from across the Prime Volleyball League ecosystem and creating greater opportunities for young players.
Speaking about the importance of the initiative, PVL CEO Joy Bhattacharjya said the Guardians Trophy could provide a genuine pathway for emerging players.
According to Bhattacharjya, young players who perform well can get noticed and earn opportunities based on merit, helping create a stronger talent pipeline for Indian volleyball.
Long-term vision for Indian volleyball
Goa Guardians Director and Owner Raju Chekuri said the franchise’s approach has been focused on long-term investment and meaningful contribution to Indian volleyball.
“Our intent has always been to invest quietly, build for the long term and contribute meaningfully to the growth of volleyball in India,” Chekuri said.
He also shared an ambitious vision of seeing India compete in Olympic volleyball within the next two or three Olympic cycles, saying that the goal could become achievable if the wider volleyball ecosystem works together and creates the right structures.
Season 5 preparations gather pace
The Panjim gathering marked an important milestone as the Goa Guardians prepare for their second campaign in the Prime Volleyball League.
With the new home jersey unveiled, grassroots initiatives expanding and preparations for the upcoming season gathering momentum, the franchise is looking to build a stronger connection between professional volleyball and Goa’s sporting community.
For the Goa Guardians, the message from Panjim was clear: PVL Season 5 has already begun long before the first serve.
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