A delegation of Sri Lankan boxing coaches set off yesterday for Patiala, India, to partake in an exclusive training program led by esteemed boxing coaches. The event, scheduled from November 18 to 25, will convene coaches from various Asian countries at the Nethaji Subhash National Sports Institute.
Prior to their departure, the Sri Lankan coaches engaged in a rigorous 17-session online training program, preparing themselves for the intensive course in India. The selection of these coaches was orchestrated by Dian Gomes, the President of the Amateur Boxing Association of Sri Lanka, Vice President Wasantha Kumara, and the Sri Lanka Schools Boxing Coaches Association.
Jamitha Gayan, General Secretary of the Sri Lanka Schools Boxing Association, expressed optimism about the initiative, stating, “In Sri Lanka, we typically organize tournaments, but this year marks a change. We are planning to participate in an international tournament in Malaysia this December. Our goal is to send a well-prepared team, armed with the insights gained from this training.”
Historically, both Sri Lanka and India shared a similar standard in boxing. However, the current landscape sees India dominating the Women’s Boxing Rankings globally, holding the top three positions.
The collaborative efforts between India and Sri Lanka continue to strengthen, with both nations actively exchanging knowledge to elevate the sport in the region.
The Sri Lankan boxing coaches selected for this pivotal training opportunity include: KACN Alexander (St Aloysius Vidyalaya Ratnapura), TBJG Bandara (St Sylvester’s College Kandy), A Weerasuriya (Bandarawela Central College), N Dasun Priyantha (Peradeniya Central College), M Nixon Rubaraj (Vavuniay District BA), Indunil Kodduruarachchi (Sunandopananda Vidyalaya Moratuwa), Ashan Polwatte (Royal College Nivithigala), Chathuranga Sujith (Ekiriya Vidyalaya), MM Nisad Bandara (Pebotuwa Vidyalaya), MMJ Muwath (Azhar College Akurana), Ms Niranjala Senanayake (Great Strength Academy).
This initiative not only strengthens the skills of the coaches but also support of India’s collaboration in the field of boxing.
SAJEEWA JAYAKODY