Somaiya Vidyavihar University Clinches Double Victory at National Squash Championship
Victory at the AIU All India Inter-University Squash Tournament
The men's and women's squash teams from Somaiya Vidyavihar University (SVU) triumphed at the AIU All India Inter-University Squash Tournament for the 2025-26 season, as reported in an official release.
Over five days of fierce competition, 76 teams from 36 universities across India showcased their skills, transforming the campus into a vibrant hub for university squash. In the women's final, SVU's talented athletes achieved a decisive 3-0 victory against Panjab University, Chandigarh. The men's team followed suit with a nail-biting 3-2 win over the University of Madras, Chennai, culminating in a thrilling championship finish that highlighted the university's prowess in sports.
A Double Triumph
This remarkable double victory underscores the robust sporting framework at Somaiya Vidyavihar University, which is dedicated to fostering elite student-athletes. Equipped with international-standard squash courts, expert coaching, and well-structured training programs, the university has emerged as a leading center for squash in India, inspiring young athletes and promoting the sport across various campuses.
Praise from AIU Observer
Ajay Malik, an observer from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), expressed his admiration for the growth and organization of the tournament, stating, "The increase in participation this year is truly impressive. From 19 teams in 2022 to nearly 40 in the men's section and 36 in the women's section now, the rapid expansion of the sport in Indian universities is evident. Somaiya Vidyavihar University executed the tournament flawlessly, ensuring smooth operations for such a large-scale event. I also commend the university for preparing to host the FISU World University Squash Championship later this year."
Championship Finals
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A Vision for Sporting Excellence
Aazaz Khan, Director of Somaiya Sports Academy, remarked, "Winning both the men's and women's titles is a proud moment for Somaiya Vidyavihar University. These victories are the result of years of cultivating a supportive sporting environment, employing licensed coaching professionals, and establishing a development pathway for athletes to progress from campus courts to national and international competitions. As we prepare to host the FISU World University Squash Championship in August 2026, we are confident and ready for the global stage."
Chancellor Samir Somaiya added, "Sport has been a significant part of my journey since my student days at Cornell, shaping my belief that every student should have access to top-notch sporting facilities. This conviction continues to guide our efforts at Somaiya Vidyavihar University, from building international-standard squash courts to creating coaching pathways that reach young athletes in rural areas like Laxmiwadi. As we host the FISU World University Squash Championship this August, we aim to field the strongest team representing our country. After winning bronze in the last edition in Johannesburg, our goal is clear: to secure gold in both men's and women's categories."
Future Outlook: The Global Stage
Hosting the AIU All India Inter-University Squash Tournament for the fourth consecutive year highlights SVU's flourishing sporting ecosystem. Through the Somaiya Sports Academy, students benefit from professional coaching, structured training, and world-class facilities that prepare them for national and international competitions.
Later this year, Somaiya Vidyavihar University will host athletes from over 20 countries at the FISU World University Squash Championship 2026. This event will bring global university squash to Mumbai, promote international collaboration, and reinforce SVU's status as a leading center for sports excellence in India. The recent double victory at the national championship marks a significant milestone, reflecting the university's dedication to developing student-athletes and inspiring the next generation of squash players.