SIT Challengers Cup 2026: Siliguri Techno India Group Public School Clinches U-19 Volleyball Title
The Siliguri Institute of Technology (SIT) campus witnessed a day of competitive sport and youthful energy on January 15, as schools from across the region gathered for the SIT Challengers Cup 2026, a one-day inter-school under-19 knockout volleyball tournament. The event brought together emerging talent, enthusiastic supporters, and organisers with a shared objective: to encourage structured sports participation alongside academics.
Held amid growing interest in school-level competitive sports in North Bengal, the tournament underscored the role of educational institutions in nurturing physical fitness, discipline, and teamwork among students. From the opening match to the final showdown, the competition delivered closely fought encounters and moments of high-quality play.
Strong Start Sets the Tone for the Tournament
The tournament opened with an intense contest between Buraganj High School and Phansidewa High School. The match immediately set a competitive tone, with Buraganj edging past their opponents in a hard-fought three-set battle, winning 2–1. The closely matched contest highlighted the preparedness and resilience of both teams, drawing early applause from spectators.
In the following fixture, Ambari High School demonstrated tactical discipline and strong coordination to secure a straight-sets victory over Amarjyoti International School. Their 2–0 win reflected a well-balanced team effort, combining consistent serving with effective net play.
Siliguri Techno India Group Public School continued the momentum with a convincing performance against Dr. Ambedkar Academy. Winning 2–0, the team displayed confidence and composure, quickly establishing themselves as strong title contenders. Royal Academy also impressed in their quarterfinal clash, defeating Salbari High School in straight sets to book a place in the semifinals.
High-Stakes Semifinals Test Skill and Nerves
As the tournament progressed into the semifinal stage, the level of competition intensified. The first semifinal saw Siliguri Techno India Group Public School face Ambari High School in a closely watched encounter. Both sides exchanged points through aggressive rallies and disciplined defence. Techno India Group Public School eventually prevailed, capitalising on key moments to secure a place in the final.
The second semifinal featured Royal Academy against Buraganj High School. Buraganj carried forward the fighting spirit they had shown in the opening match, pushing Royal Academy through a demanding contest. With controlled attacks and consistent teamwork, Buraganj emerged victorious, setting up a final against Siliguri Techno India Group Public School.
Organisers noted that the semifinals reflected the growing standard of school-level volleyball in the region. “The quality of play we witnessed today shows how much effort schools are putting into structured sports training,” an SIT official associated with the event said.
A Thrilling Final Decides the Champion
The championship match lived up to expectations, delivering a thrilling spectacle for players and spectators alike. Siliguri Techno India Group Public School and Buraganj High School engaged in a closely contested battle, with both teams demonstrating technical skill, sharp reflexes, and strong on-court communication.
As the match progressed into the decisive set, tension filled the court. With points exchanged rapidly, the final moments tested the players’ composure under pressure. Siliguri Techno India Group Public School ultimately held their nerve, sealing the match with a 15–10 scoreline in the final set to lift the SIT Challengers Cup 2026.
The audience responded with sustained applause, acknowledging the effort and sportsmanship displayed by both finalists. Coaches and teachers from participating schools praised the students for maintaining discipline and respect throughout the competition.
Promoting Sportsmanship and Holistic Education
According to the organisers, the primary aim of the SIT Challengers Cup 2026 is to promote sportsmanship, physical fitness, and teamwork among school students. With academic pressures often limiting time for extracurricular activities, such tournaments provide a structured platform for young athletes to showcase their abilities and gain competitive experience.
An SIT representative stated that the institute views sports as an essential component of holistic education. “Events like this help students build confidence, discipline, and leadership skills that go beyond the classroom. We are committed to supporting such initiatives regularly,” the official said.
Teachers accompanying the teams echoed similar sentiments, noting that participation in competitive sports helps students develop resilience and time-management skills. Parents present at the venue also expressed appreciation for the opportunity given to young players to compete in a well-organised and safe environment.
Looking Ahead
With the successful completion of the SIT Challengers Cup 2026, the Siliguri Institute of Technology has reinforced its position as a supportive hub for youth sports in the region. Organisers have indicated plans to expand future editions of the tournament, potentially including more schools and additional sporting disciplines.
As interest in school-level sports continues to grow in Siliguri and surrounding areas, such events are expected to play a vital role in identifying talent and encouraging healthy competition. For the students who participated, the tournament offered not just trophies and results, but valuable lessons in teamwork, perseverance, and fair play—principles that extend well beyond the volleyball court.
