Munish Sood
MANDI:
Himachal Pradesh is set to make a strong mark at the 8th National Savate Championship as a 50-member state contingent heads to Chandigarh on October 5, 2025. The championship will take place at the Sports Complex, Sector 56, where the players will showcase their skills and determination.
The selection of the team was finalised on July 27, 2025, and since then, the athletes have been undergoing rigorous training to prepare for the national stage.
The Himachal contingent will be led by team captain Pankaj Kumar, while Inder Kumar will serve as the team manager. Supporting them in guiding the players during the competition will be officials Amar Chand Walia, Pankaj Kumar, Rishav Sharma, Harish Kumar and Roma.
A special highlight of the team’s journey is the leadership of Santoshi Sharma, general secretary of the Himachal Pradesh Savate Association. A former international player and current coach of the Indian Savate team, she has played a pivotal role in preparing the squad. She personally conducted an intensive one-month coaching camp at the historic Paddal Stadium, Mandi, to ensure the players are match-ready.
The championship brings pride and excitement to the sports fraternity of Himachal Pradesh. Expectations are high that the players will perform with discipline, spirit and determination, bringing glory not just to the state but also to the nation.
With Santoshi Sharma’s relentless efforts and the players’ commitment, experts believe Himachal Pradesh is on track to earn multiple medals and recognition in the international arena of Savate.
