Uttarakhand’s men’s and women’s teams created history by winning both titles at the IBFF North Central Zone Blind Football Tournament held in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, from November 1 to 3, 2025. Both teams showcased exceptional performance throughout the championship.
The women’s team, led by captain Shefali Rawat, delivered a stunning performance, defeating West Bengal 3-0 in the final. Shefali scored 21 goals to win both the Golden Boot and Player of the Tournament titles. Goalkeeper Smita Rawat, who played her debut tournament, was named Best Goalkeeper.
The men’s team, under captain Shivam Singh Negi, won the final against Delhi in a thrilling penalty shootout (2-1). Sovendra Bhandari earned the Player of the Tournament title, while Sahil won the Golden Boot with 27 goals.
Uttarakhand teams collectively scored 80 goals — the highest in any blind football tournament to date. The women’s team alone contributed 23 goals, led by Shefali’s 21 and Sheetal’s 2.
Women’s Team: Shefali Rawat (Captain), Sheetal Kumari (Vice-Captain), Tanuja Parmar, Anushka Dubey, Smita Rawat (Goalkeeper). Coach: Naresh Singh Nain; Goal Guide: Deepanshu Paliwal.
Men’s Team: Shivam Singh Negi (Captain), Sovendra Bhandari (Vice-Captain), Sahil, Himanshu Pal, Rajesh, Nikhil, Naman, Aditya Sajwan (Goalkeeper). Coach: Naresh Singh Nain; Goal Guide: Deepak Singh Rawat.
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Both teams represented Uttarakhand Blind Sports Association (UBSA). Association President Anant Prakash Mehra congratulated the teams, announcing that a grand felicitation ceremony will be organized in Dehradun upon their return. He also assured continued support for the players’ future competitions.
