Jammu’s Women Masters Handball Stars Shine with 2 Silvers & 1 Bronze at Nationals

 

Jammu April 22: In a remarkable display of resilience, skill, and sportsmanship, the women of Jammu have etched their names in the history of Indian handball with a triumphant performance at the 7th Masters National Games, held in the picturesque town of Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. Proving that passion knows no age, the Jammu & Kashmir Women Masters Handball teams bagged two silver medals and one bronze, making their state and supporters proud.

The 30+ women's team, led by International Handball Player and Police Inspector Renu Rattan, showcased phenomenal teamwork and grit throughout the tournament. Though they narrowly missed the gold, falling to Kerala in a closely contested final (10-7), their journey to the finals was nothing short of inspirational. The team—comprising Vinay Sharma (Goalkeeper), Sonika Bhandari, Anju Sharma, Sandhiya Bakshi, Sonia Jain, Atula Rajput, Bhavna Devi, Bandana Sharma, and Reetu Choudhary (Goalkeeper)—earned accolades for their spirited performance and discipline on the court.

The 40+ category team, captained by the dynamic Mamta Bajaj, also clinched silver. Despite a tough final against a formidable Kerala side, who scored 16 goals to J&K's 6, the team stood tall. This group included stalwarts like Neete Kaur, Mousmi Verma, Meetu Singh, Dr. Sonia Chib, Manu Samriti, Upasana Sharma, Nidhi Pandey, Tanu Banotra, Geetanjali Aggarwal, Santosh Sharma, Anjali Jain, and Suman Sharma. With Geetanjali managing the team and Ranjeet Singh Chib coaching, the squad was praised for their sportsmanship and perseverance.

In the 45+ category, J&K secured the bronze medal, fighting valiantly in a nail-biting match against Uttar Pradesh, who edged them out by a single goal (5-4). Led once again by the ever-resilient Insp. Renu Rattan, the team proved that experience is a formidable force in the world of sports.

What makes this victory even more inspiring is the background of many of these athletes—working professionals, mothers, doctors, and police officers—who balanced their careers and personal lives while continuing to pursue their passion for handball.

Their achievements at the national level send a powerful message: age is just a number, and dedication, discipline, and determination can make anything possible. These remarkable women are not just athletes—they are role models who’ve redefined the meaning of strength, commitment, and team spirit.

As the tricolor soared in Dharamshala, it wasn't just about medals—it was about the heart, the hustle, and the undying love for the game. Jammu salutes its champions!