Somaiya Vidyavihar University is proud to announce that four of its students have been selected to the six member team representing India in the prestigious 2024 FISU World University Championship Squash in Johannesburg. The team comprises Rahul Baitha, Om Semwal, Suraj Chand and Nirupama Dubey (all from Somaiya Vidyavihar University), Pooja Arthi (Anna University) and Shameena Riaz (University of Madras). Mr. Aazaz Khan, Director of Somaiya Sports Academy, has also been appointed as the Manager of the Team.
The international tournament organised by the University Sports Federation of South Africa (USSA) and hosted by the University of Johannesburg in partnership with Squash South Africa, will be held from 2nd – 8th September 2024, and will see participation from 38 universities worldwide vying for the coveted World University Champion title.
The team India is constituted by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) based on their skills, resilience, and dedication. Their journey to Johannesburg represents not just personal achievement, but also the unwavering support and high-quality training provided by the proud Official Sponsor Somaiya Vidyavihar University.
Shri Samir Somaiya, Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University and a sports enthusiast who has been a squash player himself, expressed his pride: “We believe in the importance of sports and holistic development and their crucial role in students’ lives. While playing squash for Cornell University, I have always dreamed of creating competitive sports teams that compete both nationally and internationally. I am delighted that Somaiya students are representing India. I wish the team the best of luck and look forward to more such achievements in the future.”
Aazaz Khan, Director of Somaiya Sports Academy, who is also appointed as the Team Manager, said, “Squash is a sport that tests resilience, strategy, and determination. At Somaiya Sports Academy, we focus on building and nurturing these qualities in our students, empowering them to excel on the court and beyond. Watching our students rise to represent India is a moment of immense pride, reinforcing our belief in the power of dedication and teamwork.”