Heena Sidhu Welcomes the Launch of Shooting League of India
Excitement Grows for the Shooting League of India
New Delhi, August 26: The anticipation surrounding the Shooting League of India (SLI) is on the rise, with former World No. 1 Heena Sidhu expressing her enthusiasm for this new initiative.
She believes that this league will not only enhance the visibility of shooting in India but also offer a significant platform for emerging shooters to demonstrate their skills.
“At last, we are getting what we deserve. Many sports have launched their leagues, and it was high time for shooting to join in,” she stated in a press release from SLI.
Discussing the technical aspects of shooting, Sidhu noted, “The primary challenge in shooting lies in micro-movements, which spectators often overlook. While it may appear that shooters are stationary, they are actually in constant motion, especially when under pressure. Utilizing tools like SCATT, body sensors, or cameras can help illustrate these nuances and educate fans on how a score of 9 or 10 is achieved through meticulous preparation and movement. This kind of insight will make the sport much more captivating.”
She elaborated on SCATT's capabilities, explaining, “This technology employs lasers to track the trajectory of the pistol—from the 8th ring to the 9th and ultimately into the 10th. The increased movement under stress can even be correlated with heart rate or brain activity, providing a fascinating glimpse into the shooter's experience.”
As an Arjuna awardee, Sidhu emphasized the mental fortitude required in shooting, stating, “Shooting is distinct from other sports. Although it may seem static, each shot presents a unique challenge due to the athlete's variability. It tests psychological resilience—how one manages stress, reacts to previous shots, and balances aggression with composure. There’s something valuable for everyone.”
Sidhu believes that broadcasting the league will be crucial in drawing more fans and fostering a connection with the sport. “Engaging fans has always been difficult because they couldn’t perceive what goes on in a shooter’s mind. The more we can showcase matches on television, OTT platforms, or YouTube, the greater the awareness and interest will be—similar to cricket, where exposure boosts engagement,” she remarked.
“For the first time, Indian viewers will have the opportunity to watch us regularly from home. Previously, they only saw us during World Cups or the Olympics. Now, I’m excited to see how fans will react—not just to the athletes, but to the sport of shooting itself,” she concluded.