CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Abdullah, a talented middle blocker from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Training Centre (STC), Raipur, has brought pride to the nation by winning a bronze medal while representing India at the Under-15 World School Volleyball Championship. The championship was held in Shangluo, China. The training centre operates under the Sports Authority of India Regional Centre, Bhopal.
Abdullah has been undergoing residential training at STC Raipur for the past two years and has consistently delivered outstanding performances at the international level. Earlier, in July 2025, he was a key member of the Indian team that won a bronze medal at the Under-16 Asian Volleyball Championship held in Thailand.
Coming from a modest family background, Abdullah is the son of Mohammad Raju, a welder. Expressing his emotions over his son’s international success, his father said, “We will work hard; Abdullah, you just play for the country. The training my son received at STC Raipur refined his skills, and today he has won a medal for the nation.”
Abdullah began his volleyball journey in his birthplace, Mandaur, a small village near Prayagraj known for its strong volleyball culture. Recognizing his natural talent, a well-wisher from the village advised the family to provide him with professional training. As a result of this guidance, Abdullah was selected in 2023 for the Sports Authority of India Training Centre, Raipur, where structured coaching and continuous support transformed him into an international-level player.
Following his recent achievements, Abdullah has now been selected for the Under-17 World Volleyball Championship, which will be held in Thailand in 2026. With focused preparation and collective team effort, he aims to help India deliver a stronger performance and compete for the gold medal.
Abhishek Singh Chauhan (ITS), Regional Director, Sports Authority of India Regional Centre, Bhopal, expressed happiness over Abdullah’s achievement and praised the collective efforts of the centre’s coaches and support staff. He stated that athletes associated with SAI Training Centres (STCs) and National Centres of Excellence (NCOs) are consistently delivering strong results on the international stage, which reflects a bright future for Indian sports.
Garima Chaudhary (Olympian and Deputy Director), Centre In-charge, SAI Training Centre, Raipur, also congratulated Abdullah on his commendable achievement and extended her best wishes for his promising sporting future.
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