Navakodi Memorial Trophy Spotlights Grassroots Talent in Coimbatore

The Navakodi Basketball Tournament held recently in Coimbatore turned into a vibrant celebration of young sporting talent. With local teams competing across age groups, the event delivered high-energy matches that had the crowd on the edge of their seats.

Among the highlights of the tournament was the presence of former India netball captain and actor Prachi Tehlan, popular from the film maamangam opposite mamooty invited as the Chief Guest. Known for her commitment to promoting grassroots sports through the Prachi Tehlan Foundation, her presence added both excitement and encouragement to the event.

“It was an amazing experience watching the local teams compete,” said Tehlan. “Every match was nail-biting — it felt like watching national-level players. I was thrilled to witness the raw talent of these young basketball players, both boys and girls.”

Motivated by the performances, Tehlan announced scholarships of ₹5,000 each for four standout athletes from across the tournament — selected not just from the winners, but from various age groups. These scholarships, sponsored by her foundation, aim to inspire and support young athletes in their sporting journeys.

“I feel happy to be part of a process that helps bring change,” she shared. “Even a small push can give wings to an athlete’s dream and contribute to the overall growth of sports in our country.”

With initiatives like this, the Navakodi Tournament is not just a competition — it’s a step forward in nurturing India’s future champions.

The recent Navakodi Basketball Tournament held in Coimbatore turned out to be a celebration of young sports talent. With local teams competing in age-wise categories, the event became more exciting and brought the audience to the edge of the seat.

One of the highlights of the tournament is the presence of former Indian netball captain and actress Prachi Tehlan as the chief guest. She is famous for her role in the film ‘Mamangam’ opposite actor Mammootty. Prachi Tehlan has been promoting such sports through her foundation. Her presence added enthusiasm and encouragement to the event.

“Watching the local teams compete was an amazing experience. Every match was amazing. It felt like watching national level players. I was thrilled to see the talent of these young basketball players.”

To encourage the athletes, Tehlan announced a scholarship of Rs. 5,000 each to the four best athletes at the end of the competition. This was selected not only from among the winners but also from different age groups. These scholarships, provided through his foundation, aim to encourage young athletes.

“I am happy to be a part of this great event that will help bring about change. Even a small encouragement will give wings to an athlete’s dream. It will also contribute to the development of our country’s sports sector,” he said.

With such efforts, the Navakodi Tournament is not just a competition but also a major initiative to develop future champions across India.