SRINAGAR: Government College of Physical Education (GCOPE), Ganderbal, and Government Degree College (GDC) Sopore emerged champions in the University of Kashmir’s Inter-College Women’s Volleyball and Men’s Football tournaments respectively, which concluded on Thursday as part of the university’s Annual Sports Calendar 2026.
A total of 23 teams each participated in the two tournaments, attracting students from colleges across the Kashmir division.
In the women’s volleyball final, GCOPE Ganderbal defeated GDC Shopian 3-2 in a closely contested match. GDC Shopian won the opening two sets to take a 2-0 lead, but GCOPE Ganderbal rallied to win three consecutive sets and clinch the title.
In the men’s football final played at the University of Kashmir, GDC Sopore defeated GDC Sumbal 2-0 to lift the championship trophy.
Zaid put GDC Sopore ahead in the early stages of the match. Despite several attempts by GDC Sumbal to level the score, the team failed to convert its chances. Farman scored a second goal in the closing stages to seal the victory.
The prize distribution ceremony was presided over by University of Kashmir Controller of Examinations Prof Majid Zaman Baba. Congratulating the winners and participants, he highlighted the importance of sports in student development.
Prof Baba also said the university was working on introducing academic credits for sports participation in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aimed at providing academic recognition for students’ involvement in sports and physical activities.
Director, Directorate of Physical Education and Sports, Prof Raies Ahmad Qadri, said sports contribute to personal development by promoting discipline, teamwork, perseverance and dedication.
Medals and trophies were distributed among the winners and runners-up by Prof Baba and Prof Qadri. Assistant Directors of the Directorate of Physical Education and Sports, Dr Basharat Ali and Tausif Bhat, presented an overview of the tournaments and participation levels during the ceremony.
