Wheeling Happiness Foundation Organizes Para-Athlete Kabaddi Exhibition Match in Jaipur
The SMS Indoor Stadium in Jaipur was buzzing with excitement as the Wheeling Happiness Foundation, under the leadership of Padma Shree Dr. Deepa Malik, hosted a one-of-a-kind para-athlete kabaddi exhibition match in collaboration with the Capri Sports Foundation. The event took place on Wednesday and showcased the incredible determination and skill of para-athletes from across the country.
A Celebration of Diversity and Resilience
The exhibition match featured two teams – Para Dhakad and Para Warriorz – composed of para-athletes with various disabilities, including arm and leg amputees, as well as polio survivors with weak limbs. Despite their challenges, each player demonstrated immense skill and passion on the kabaddi mat, captivating the audience with their inspiring performance.
Adding to the significance of the event, players from the Bengal Warriorz team of the Pro Kabaddi League were in attendance to support and cheer for the para-athletes. The presence of these professional kabaddi players not only elevated the spirit of the match but also highlighted the unity and solidarity within the sports community.
Inspiring Moments and Future Aspirations
Bengal Warriorz skipper Devank Dalal expressed his admiration for the para-athletes, acknowledging their resilience and dedication. He emphasized the importance of recognizing them as the true heroes who overcome significant challenges to excel in their sport.
For the para-athletes themselves, the exhibition match was a historic milestone that showcased how far para-kabaddi has come in India. Players like Vikas Kumar, a Para Athletics Silver Medalist, and Sachin Tandel, a gold medalist in para-kabaddi, reflected on their journey and the pride they felt in representing para-athletes on a prestigious platform like the Pro Kabaddi League.
A Bright Future for Para-Kabaddi
Coach Rajesh Kumar, a Bhim Awardee and Asian Para Games medalist, emphasized the significance of providing exposure and opportunities to para-kabaddi players. He expressed gratitude to the PKL for the platform it has offered to showcase the talent and potential of para-athletes, paving the way for a brighter future for the sport.
Looking ahead, Rajesh Kumar expressed hope that the para-kabaddi players who participated in the exhibition match would continue to shine and inspire others, both within the para-athletics community and beyond.
Upcoming PKL Season 12 Matches
As the excitement around the exhibition match settles, kabaddi fans can look forward to the upcoming matches in the Pro Kabaddi League Season 12. On Thursday, September 25, the following matches are scheduled:
Match 1: Bengaluru Bulls vs UP Yoddhas
Match 2: Dabang Delhi K.C. vs UMumba
Tickets for the matches are available on District by Zomato, the official ticketing platform for PKL Season 12. Kabaddi enthusiasts can catch all the action live on the Star Sports Network and stream it on JioHotstar starting from 7:30 pm onwards.
Empowering Para-Athletes Through Kabaddi
Para-athletes participating in sports like kabaddi not only showcase their physical abilities but also demonstrate resilience, determination, and a never-give-up attitude. These athletes serve as role models for others facing similar challenges, inspiring them to pursue their passions and dreams despite any obstacles they may encounter.
Events like the para-athlete kabaddi exhibition match organized by the Wheeling Happiness Foundation play a crucial role in promoting inclusivity and diversity in sports. By providing a platform for para-athletes to showcase their talents, these initiatives help break stereotypes and highlight the capabilities of individuals with disabilities.
Community Support and Collaboration
The collaboration between the Wheeling Happiness Foundation and the Capri Sports Foundation underscores the importance of community support in empowering para-athletes. Through partnerships with established sports organizations and professional athletes, para-athletes receive encouragement, mentorship, and opportunities to hone their skills on a larger stage.
By fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity within the sports community, events like the para-athlete kabaddi exhibition match create a supportive environment where para-athletes feel valued, respected, and celebrated for their achievements.
Building a Sustainable Future for Para-Sports
Coach Rajesh Kumar’s commitment to advocating for the growth of para-kabaddi reflects a broader movement towards promoting inclusivity and accessibility in sports. As awareness around para-sports continues to increase, more opportunities are being created for para-athletes to participate, compete, and excel in their chosen disciplines.
With the support of organizations like the Wheeling Happiness Foundation and the continued collaboration with mainstream sports entities, the future of para-kabaddi looks promising. By nurturing talent, providing resources, and fostering a culture of inclusivity, para-sports have the potential to thrive and inspire a new generation of athletes.
Looking Ahead: Pro Kabaddi League Season 12
As the Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 unfolds, fans of the sport can anticipate thrilling matches, fierce competition, and unforgettable moments on the kabaddi mat. With teams vying for supremacy and players showcasing their skills, the excitement and passion surrounding the league continue to grow with each match.
For para-kabaddi enthusiasts and supporters of inclusive sports, events like the exhibition match serve as a reminder of the diversity and talent present within the kabaddi community. By embracing and celebrating para-athletes, the Pro Kabaddi League contributes to the overall growth and development of the sport, fostering a more inclusive and diverse sporting landscape.
As kabaddi continues to capture the hearts and minds of fans across the country, the spirit of unity, resilience, and sportsmanship embodied by para-athletes serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of sports in breaking barriers and inspiring positive change.
