Celebrating a Legacy: Rakesh Jassal Receives Lifetime Achievement Award in Table Tennis

Shri Rakesh Jassal, a retired International Chief Coach, has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Himachal Pradesh Table Tennis Association. With over 33 years of dedication, he has significantly impacted the sport, mentoring numerous players to state and national levels. His contributions have not only elevated the profile of table tennis in the Kangra district but also brought glory to India on the international stage. Discover more about his inspiring journey and the recognition he has received.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 9, 2026, 15:59 IST

Honoring a Table Tennis Pioneer

DHARAMSHALA - The District Table Tennis Club in Dharamshala is filled with pride as Shri Rakesh Jassal, the esteemed retired International Chief Coach from the Sports Authority of India, received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Himachal Pradesh Table Tennis Association in Shimla on March 7, 2026.

This accolade celebrates his remarkable 33 years of commitment and service to the sport. Between 1992 and 2025, Shri Jassal was instrumental in developing talent, mentoring over 100 players for state-level competitions and guiding more than 60 players to national events from the Kangra district and across Himachal Pradesh. Impressively, over 10 of his trainees have secured jobs in both government and private sectors due to their sporting achievements.

On the global front, Shri Jassal represented India as part of the Indian Youth Table Tennis Team in Doha, Qatar, in October 2024, where the team earned four medals, enhancing India's reputation in the sport.

During his acceptance speech, Shri Jassal expressed heartfelt thanks to his wife, Mrs. Kusum Jassal, the District Table Tennis Association of Kangra, and former Himachal Pradesh Table Tennis Association President Shri Ritesh Chauhan (IAS), dedicating the award to Shri Chauhan for his unwavering support.

Throughout his illustrious career, Shri Jassal dedicated a significant portion of his efforts to the Kangra district, providing players with national-level exposure and transforming the identity of table tennis in the region. The District Table Tennis Club, Dharamshala, recognized his invaluable contributions and expressed deep gratitude.