Tag: Sports News

Sports

FC Goa Sign Promising Goan Midfielder Harsh Patre for the 2025-26 Season

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Panaji, July 2025 — FC Goa have announced the signing of 22-year-old Goan midfielder Harsh Patre, bringing back one of the state’s finest young talents ahead of the 2025-26 Indian Super League season.

Patre, who began his football journey at the Goa Football Development Council (GFDC) academy, first caught the attention of FC Goa’s scouting team back in the 2018-19 AIFF Junior League, while ironically playing against the Gaurs’ U15 team. His composure, technique, and footballing intelligence at such a young age made a lasting impression.

Over the years, Patre honed his skills with the Indian Arrows, a developmental side run by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), giving him crucial exposure in the I-League. His performances there earned him a move to Bengaluru FC in the 2022-23 season, where he made rapid progress from the reserves to the ISL senior team.

“We’ve tracked Harsh for years,” said Lokesh Bherwani, FC Goa’s Director of Football. “From his time at GFDC to his I-League stint, we always believed he’d return home. We are confident he will be a vital player for us this season and beyond.”

The signing aligns with FC Goa’s philosophy of nurturing homegrown talent and solidifying its Goan core. Patre’s ability to control midfield tempo and make intelligent decisions fits seamlessly into FC Goa’s possession-based style.

Speaking about the move, Harsh said:

“Coming back to play for FC Goa is a dream come true. As a Goan, this club has always had a special place in my heart. I’m grateful for this opportunity and will give everything for the badge.”

The 2025-26 season looks promising for the Gaurs, with exciting new additions like Patre complementing an already competitive squad. Fans can expect to see him make a mark in midfield, inspired by both home pride and professional ambition.

Sports

Sakshi Wins India’s First Gold at 2025 World Boxing Cup in Astana

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Astana, Kazakhstan | July 2025
Sakshi, already a two-time Youth World Champion, added another jewel to her crown by clinching India’s first gold medal at the 2025 World Boxing Cup held in Astana. Competing in the women’s 54kg category, she outclassed Yosline Perez of the USA in a dominant final bout.

The 54kg final was a showcase of Sakshi’s precision, agility, and relentless aggression. From the first round, she dictated the pace, keeping Perez on the defensive and landing sharp counterpunches. Judges scored the contest unanimously in her favor, underlining her complete control.

This gold marks a significant moment not just for Sakshi but for Team India, which has now secured 11 medals in this year’s Cup — including six from the Brazil leg of the tournament.

A Rising Star with Global Glory

Born and trained in India’s grassroots boxing ecosystem, Sakshi has long been touted as one of the brightest prospects in Indian sports. With this World Cup gold, she has proven she can hold her own — and dominate — on the senior international stage.

Team India’s Golden Momentum

India’s boxing contingent continues to impress with a mix of youth and experience. Coaches and sports officials hailed Sakshi’s win as a morale-booster and a symbol of the growing strength of women’s boxing in the country.

What’s Next?

With eyes now set on the upcoming World Championships and Olympic qualifiers, Sakshi’s win provides crucial momentum and inspiration for the rest of Team India.

As the tricolor soared and the national anthem played in Astana, it was clear: Indian boxing is not just participating — it’s leading. 🥊🇮🇳

Human Interest

Celebrating the Voices Behind the Game: Happy World Sports Journalists Day!

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July 2, 2025 — Whether it’s a last-minute goal, a record-breaking sprint, or a legendary comeback, the moments that define sports reach us through the lens of dedicated sports journalists. On World Sports Journalists Day, we honour the reporters, writers, editors, photographers, and commentators who shape our experience of sport—not just with facts, but with feeling.

First established by the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) in 1994, July 2 marks the day in 1924 when the organization was founded during the Summer Olympics in Paris. Today, the date serves as a reminder of the critical role that sports journalists play in not only covering events but also championing integrity, fair play, and the spirit of competition.

📰 More Than Just a Game

Behind every match highlight and athlete profile is a journalist chasing deadlines, battling stadium logistics, and balancing truth with empathy. Their work helps contextualize sports in society—touching on issues like gender equity, mental health, doping, inclusion, and geopolitics.

In an era of rapid digital change, sports journalism has expanded beyond newspapers and broadcasts. Social media updates, podcasts, real-time stats, and immersive storytelling now form the pulse of how fans connect to their favourite teams and athletes.

“Without sports journalists, victories would be forgotten, and legends wouldn’t be born,” said a senior editor at a national sports publication. “They are the heartbeat of the game, just as much as the athletes.”

🏟️ Unsung Heroes on the Sidelines

From remote local tournaments to global championships like the Olympics or the FIFA World Cup, sports journalists remain committed to documenting every angle. They ask the tough questions, celebrate unsung heroes, and help hold powerful institutions accountable.

They are often the first to arrive and last to leave, telling stories not just of triumph, but also of failure, perseverance, and resilience.

📷 A Salute to Their Passion

As fans, it’s easy to get caught up in the final score. But today, take a moment to appreciate those who make the game accessible—especially those working behind the scenes to deliver honest, passionate, and insightful coverage.

To every sports journalist out there: thank you for keeping us informed, inspired, and emotionally invested. Your words and images give sport the global heartbeat it deserves.

Happy World Sports Journalists Day! 📝🏅

Sports

Proud Moment for Goa: Lloyd Fernandes to Represent India at ITTF World Para Challenger 2025

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Taleigao, Goa – Goa has yet another reason to celebrate as local table tennis champion Lloyd Fernandes gears up to represent India on the global stage at the prestigious ITTF World Para Challenger 2025, to be held in Kaohsiung, Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) from 2nd to 6th July 2025.

A resident of Taleigao, Lloyd Fernandes has been making waves in the world of para sports. He is currently ranked No. 1 in India in his category, a testament to his skill, determination, and dedication to the sport. Lloyd has earned his spot among the elite 16-member Indian para table tennis team selected to compete in the international championship.

Rising Through the Ranks

Lloyd’s journey is not just one of athletic achievement but also of perseverance. Overcoming challenges with grit and grace, he has steadily risen through national rankings to become one of India’s most promising para athletes in table tennis.

This selection to the Indian contingent for the ITTF World Para Challenger is a proud milestone not only for Lloyd but for the entire Goan sporting community. His participation places Goa on the global para sports map and serves as an inspiration for countless young athletes, especially those with disabilities.

Support and Good Wishes from the Community

The Disability Rights Association of Goa (DRAG) has extended its heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Lloyd for the upcoming championship.

“Lloyd Fernandes is a shining example of what is possible with talent, hard work, and the right support. We are proud of his achievements and confident that he will make India and Goa proud at the ITTF World Para Challenger,” said a DRAG representative.

A Role Model for Inclusion and Excellence

As para sports continue to gain recognition, athletes like Lloyd are not only competing but also breaking stereotypes, pushing boundaries, and proving that excellence knows no limits. His representation at an international level underscores the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and support for athletes with disabilities.

The entire state of Goa — and indeed the nation — stands behind Lloyd Fernandes as he prepares to compete against the world’s best. Here’s wishing him success, strength, and a memorable performance in Chinese Taipei.

#AllycaralFeature 👒

Cricket Joins the Olympics – A Historic Announcement on Olympic Day 2025

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June 23, 2025 – On a day that celebrates the global spirit of sports and inclusivity, the world of athletics witnessed a monumental development — cricket, the gentleman’s game, is officially set to return to the Olympics at the Los Angeles 2028 Games.

Announced fittingly on Olympic Day, this historic decision marks a major leap for one of the world’s most beloved sports, promising to bring the thrill of cricket to an even wider international stage.

📅 What is Olympic Day?

Celebrated every year on June 23rd since 1948, Olympic Day is not just a commemoration of the founding of the modern Olympic Games — it’s a global call to action. Rooted in the values of excellence, friendship, and respect, Olympic Day encourages people of all ages, genders, and athletic abilities to participate in physical activity, promoting a healthier and more inclusive world through sport.

This year, the celebration has been made even more special by the announcement that cricket will return to the Olympics in 2028, over a century after its first and only appearance in 1900.

🏆 Cricket’s Journey to the Olympics

Often referred to as the “gentleman’s game,” cricket has a massive following, especially across countries like India, Australia, England, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and more recently, the United States. Despite its global popularity, cricket was featured only once in Olympic history — in Paris 1900.

With its official inclusion in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, cricket is making a long-awaited return, signaling a new era of global recognition for the sport.

🌍 A Global Game Takes the Global Stage

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) have collaborated closely to make this dream a reality. The format chosen is expected to be T20 cricket — a shorter, more dynamic version of the game designed for high energy and greater accessibility for global audiences.

Cricket’s inclusion is expected to boost viewership, expand its global reach, and encourage participation in non-traditional cricketing nations.

🇮🇳 India’s Moment of Pride

For India, where cricket is not just a sport but a national passion, this announcement is a moment of great pride and joy. Fans, players, and cricketing bodies have long campaigned to see cricket earn a place on the Olympic stage once again.

Indian cricket legends and sports authorities have hailed the decision as a “landmark moment” and a “historic step forward for the sport and the country.”

🔮 Road to Los Angeles 2028

With the countdown to Los Angeles 2028 already underway, cricket boards and national Olympic committees will now begin preparing for this new frontier. Qualifying formats, team selections, and tournament structures will soon be defined to ensure a competitive and fair Olympic tournament.

The return of cricket also opens the door for other culturally significant sports to gain Olympic recognition in future editions.

🥇 A Celebration of Sport, Unity, and Progress

As the world marks Olympic Day 2025, the announcement of cricket’s Olympic return is more than symbolic — it’s a celebration of the unifying power of sport. It reaffirms the Olympics’ commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and cultural connection through athletic excellence.

Here’s to 2028 — when the sound of the cricket bat will echo once again on the world’s biggest sporting stage.