Harihara Mukkatira to host 23rd Edition at Balugodu

Napoklu (Madikeri): The 35-day Kulletira Cup Hockey tournament, played between Kodava families, drew to a close here yesterday with Chendanda family winning the prestigious Cup for the second consecutive time.

The tournament was played at General K.S. Thimayya Stadium near Napoklu Cheriyaparambu. Anjaparavanda team, a three-time past winner, ended as runner-up. Chendanda team defeated Anjaparavanda 2-0 to retain the Cup. Chendanda team opened its score with a goal from Bopanna in the first half. The team scored its second goal with International player Nikin Thimmaiah scoring in the second half, to take the lead to 2-0.

Chendanda team could have scored more goals has it not failed to convert three penalty corners into goals. Anjaparavanda team too had its chances, but failed to strike whenever opportunities came in its way.

Although Anjaparavanda team lost, its international goal-keeper Anjaparavanda B. Subbaiah exhibited his skills, earning the applause of the gathering.

A total of 334 Kodava Family teams had taken part in this 22nd Edition of Kulletira Cup.

Speaking at the prize distribution ceremony, former Olympian Maneyapanda Somaiah said that the game hockey has become a festival itself in Kodagu. Highlighting the role of Pandanda Kuttani in hosting this hockey fest, he wished that the Hockey Cup maintains its glory in future too.

Karnataka Media Academy former Chairman Maneyapanda Ponnappa, who also spoke, said that Kodagu was home to sports. Pointing out that there were more than 25 National and International Hockey players in the district, he said that Napoklu was home to many of these players. Stressing on the need for having a turf on this ground, he sought the co-operation of everyone for it.

Journalist Jeevan Chinnappa and Kulletira Cup Organiser Areyada Pavin Ponnanna were felicitated on the occasion. Kulletira family Pattedar Madappa and Kulletira Cup Hockey Committee President Shambu Mandappa presided. Kodava Hockey Association President Kaliyanda Nanaiah, Reva University VC S.Y. Kulkarni, SP Rajendra Prasad, Dy.SP Sundaraj, and others were present.

Man of the Series – Chendanda Mokshit

Man of the Match – Chendanda Bopanna

Best Forward –Anjaparavanda Jatin

Best Woman Player – Kambeeranda Nilan

Best Defender –Paradanda Prasad

Fair Play Award – Chendira Team

Best Upcoming Team  – Appachira Family

Best Half Player – Cheppudira Chetan

Best Upcoming Player – Kandanda Kushalappa

Best Goal-keeper  – Bolyapanda Dilan

Spirited Team – Jabbanda Family

Best Reverse Shot Players Chendanda Thammai, Cheppudira Somanna, Anjaparavanda Deepak Subbaiah