The roar of the crowd has finally settled at the Sabir Shaheed Stadium, but the impact of the District Volleyball Championship 2025-26 will be felt for years to come. Organized by the Poonch Volleyball Association (PVA), this wasn’t just a tournament—it was a declaration that volleyball in the mountains has entered a new, professional era. From the first serve on December 27th to the final point on the 30th, we witnessed more than just a game; we saw the future of our youth taking shape through discipline, grit, and the high-speed rhythm of the FIVB rotation.

In the heart of Rawalakot, volleyball isn’t just a sport played in the dirt; it’s a bridge that connects the wisdom of our veteran legends with the raw energy of our youngest dreamers.

The scale of this event was unprecedented. While 92 clubs across the division showed interest, the PVA took a bold step toward professionalism by implementing registration system. Only 39 clubs, those that met criteria for discipline and commitment, earned their spot on the court. To elevate the game further, every match followed FIVB international rotation rules. Watching our local boys adapt to these complex technical standards was a proud moment for the association, proving that our players are ready for the national stage.

The journey to the final was a masterclass in athleticism. The semi-finals saw Kasher Desh Rawalakot battle past a tenacious Friends Club Pachiot, while Al-Mujahid Club Soon Topa and Poonch Eagle Jandali pushed each other to the limit. Beyond the scores, the true insight gained was the importance of our ‘Gurus’—the veteran players who sat in the stands every day. Their presence reminded every young spiker that while the rules might change to international standards, the spirit of Poonch volleyball remains rooted in respect and community.

A Distinguished Guest List

The final ceremony was a prestigious gathering of the region’s administrative, civic, and sporting leadership. The presence of these influential figures added immense value to the players’ achievements and the association’s mission.

The ceremony was led by:

• Chief Guest: Mr. Umer Farooq, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Poonch.
• Guest of Honor: Sardar Naeem Khan, Mayor of Rawalakot.
• Special Guest: Sardar Farooq Khan, Secretary General of the Azad Kashmir Volleyball Association.
• Special Guest: Mr. Luqman Farooq, Deputy Director of Sports, Poonch Division.
• Special Guest: Mr. Shafqat Zia, President of the Ghazi-e-Millat Press Club.

The Presence of Legends

Beyond the official dignitaries, the atmosphere at Sabir Shaheed Stadium was enriched by the presence of our “Gurus”—the veteran volleyball stars of yesteryear. Their attendance throughout the championship, alongside the Mayor and DC, served as a bridge between the glorious history of the sport in the valley and the promising future of the youth playing under modern FIVB rules.