Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, June 16

Delhi Public School (DPS) Srinagar emerged champions of a valley-wide inter-school basketball tournament after defeating Doon School Srinagar in a closely contested final, capping an unbeaten campaign that school officials said reflected the institution’s growing emphasis on sports and holistic education.

The tournament brought together ten schools from across Kashmir and provided a competitive platform for young athletes to showcase their talent while promoting physical fitness and teamwork among students.

DPS Srinagar secured the championship with a narrow 42-39 victory over Doon School Srinagar in the title clash after advancing through successive knockout rounds without defeat.

The final proved to be the most demanding test of the tournament for DPS Srinagar, with both teams trading points throughout a tightly contested encounter.

Officials said disciplined teamwork, defensive organisation and effective game management under pressure ultimately enabled DPS Srinagar to secure victory.

The competition was conducted on a knockout basis, leaving little room for error and placing considerable pressure on participating teams.

DPS Srinagar began its campaign with a convincing win over Life School Budgam before defeating Birla Open Minds Pampore in the semi-finals to secure a place in the championship match.

Coaches and organisers said the team’s consistency throughout the tournament reflected months of preparation and structured training.

Sports educators increasingly view inter-school competitions as important avenues for developing leadership, resilience and teamwork among students in addition to athletic skills.

The presentation ceremony was attended by Divisional Sports Officer Central, J&K Sports Council, Javeed-ur-Rehman, who served as chief guest.

Addressing participants, he praised the tournament for bringing together young athletes from different educational institutions and highlighted the role of sports in promoting balanced development among students.

He said sporting activities complement academic education by helping students develop discipline, confidence and teamwork.

Trophies and awards were later distributed among players and participating teams.

School administrators described the victory as a reflection of DPS Srinagar’s commitment to integrating sports into the broader educational experience.

Principal Shafaq Afshan said achievements in competitive sports demonstrate the importance of physical education in shaping well-rounded personalities.

“Our students have shown that dedication, discipline and structured training can produce excellence both on the playing field and in academics,” she said.

DPS Srinagar Chairman Vijay Dhar said competitive sports form an important component of the institution’s educational philosophy.

“We aim to develop character, leadership and a sense of purpose through sports. Teamwork, perseverance and resilience are qualities that remain valuable throughout life,” he said.

The tournament adds to a growing calendar of school-level sporting events in Kashmir, where educational institutions and sports authorities have increasingly focused on encouraging youth participation in athletics as part of broader efforts to promote physical fitness and talent development.

Organisers said such competitions not only identify emerging athletes but also provide students with opportunities to develop interpersonal skills and confidence through healthy competition.

For DPS Srinagar, the championship represents another notable achievement in its sporting programme and reinforces its position among the leading school basketball teams in the Valley.