Central University of Tamil Nadu (CUTN) witnessed a spectacular culmination to the All India South Zone Inter University Kho Kho Tournament for Women, a five-day sporting extravaganza that showcased the prowess of 62 university teams and 930 enthusiastic participants. The tournament, which commenced on 26th December 2023, concluded on 30 December 2023 (today) , demonstrating not only the spirit of competition but also the resilience and sportsmanship of the participating teams.
Despite facing weather challenges, with rain disrupting outdoor play on the last two days, the organizers seamlessly transitioned the tournament from outdoor kho kho grounds to an indoor stadium, ensuring that the competition remained fierce on specially designed rubber mats. This is the first time a Kho Kho match was played indoors during a south zone inter university tournament.
University of Mysore (first), University of Calicut (second), University of Kerala (third), and Bharathiyar University (fourth)– qualified for the league match, earning the privilege to represent the South Zone in the upcoming National All India Inter University Women's Tournament.
The Valedictory Ceremony, held under the patronage of Prof M. Krishnan, Vice Chancellor of Central University of Tamil Nadu, saw the distinguished presence of Prof G. Ravi, Vice Chancellor of Alagappa University, as the chief guest. Special invitees included Prof R Thirumalaisamy, former Vice Chancellor of Tamil Nadu Physical Education and Sports University, Prof P Mariayyah, Former Director of Physical Education at Bharathidasan University, and Prof Mahadevan, Observer, Association of Indian Universities.
Addressing the gathering, Prof M. Krishnan acknowledged the cultural significance of sports like Kho Kho in Tamil Nadu villages, emphasizing their role in enhancing agility, health, and focus. He commended the participants for their energy and the referees for their dedicated officiating. Prof Krishnan stressed the importance of integrating education, skill development, and sports for holistic personal development of youth.
Prof M. Krishnan, VC CUTN, Prof G. Ravi VC Alagappa University, and Prof R Thirumalaisamy, Former VC TNPES distributed shields and certificates to the University of Mysore winners of the South Zone Inter University Kho Kho tournament for Women, University of Calicut the runners and other teams qualifying for the league. Statutory Officers including Prof. R. Thirumuruan, Registrar, Prof Sulochana Shekar, Controller of Examination were present during the awarding ceremony.
The success of the South Zone Inter University Kho Kho Tournament for Women was made possible by the meticulous planning and execution led by Prof D Maniazhagu, Organiser, Dr. S Jayaraman Organising secretary, Dr. K Vishnuvardhan Reddy, Dr. Nagaraja Y, Dr. Binthu Mathavan. S, Dr. S Akila, and the dedicated faculty members, including Prof Sudha, Prof Gurubalamurugan, Prof Rajagopal, Prof Manivannan and Dr. Vilas.