Three talented state athletes secure national squad selection today

Three promising young athletes from Bhubaneswar will proudly represent India at the upcoming 24th Cadet, Junior and U-21 Asian Karate Championships. Scheduled to unfold in Amman, Jordan, from September 8 to 11, the prestigious tournament features a robust roster of 33 national competitors. Alisha Subudhi, Swetanjana Sahu, and Sharanya Sahu secured their coveted spots on the national squad, highlighting a significant moment of pride for regional sports enthusiasts.

Odisha continues to invest heavily in its grassroots sports infrastructure, steadily transforming the state into a reliable training hub for competitive martial arts. Alisha Subudhi prepares to demonstrate her refined skills in the highly technical Junior Individual Kata category. Furthermore, she joins forces with Swetanjana Sahu, Sharanya Sahu, and West Bengal’s Aditri Bhowmik to form a strong, unified Junior Women’s Team Kata unit.

Coaching Glory for Regional Legend

National selectors also recognized the tactical expertise available in the state by appointing international karateka Valena Valentina as an official coach. Valentina brings valuable competitive experience to the camp and serves as one of only four coaches chosen from across the country to guide the Indian athletes during the demanding tournament schedule. Local sports administrators recognize this multiple-athlete selection as a notable achievement that accurately reflects years of dedicated, rigorous training. Members of the regional martial arts community quickly gathered to congratulate the young women and their esteemed mentor. Athletes and fans alike expressed deep gratitude toward the Odisha State Karate Association for providing consistent support, vital resources, and necessary guidance over the years. This upcoming competition in Jordan offers these young martial artists a prime stage to display their talent, marking a highly rewarding step forward for Indian martial arts on a continental level.