The Haryana Steelers Academy has officially etched its name in the record books by winning the first-ever Haryana Steelers Cup (HS Cup). In a thrilling final held on March 29, 2026, the Academy squad overcame a determined Sports Centre Geong at the BRS Kabaddi Academy in Dighal. The victory was the culmination of an intensive tournament that showcased the elite potential of young athletes from the traditional kabaddi hubs of Rohtak, Hisar, and Sonipat.
The competition followed a rigorous multi-stage format designed to test the endurance and skill of players aged 16 to 20. After battling through zonal qualifiers and a competitive league stage featuring the top six teams, the Haryana Steelers Academy entered the final with an unblemished record. Despite facing a tough challenge in the ultimate match, they staged a remarkable comeback to secure the championship and solidify their status as the state’s premier youth developmental side.
Individual Accolades and Tournament Highlights:
- Champions: Haryana Steelers Academy (awarded ₹2 lakh).
- Runners-up: Sports Centre Geong (awarded ₹1 lakh).
- Best Raider: Ishant (Haryana Steelers Academy) with a dominant 49 points.
- Best Defender: Harsh (Naultha School) with an impressive 29 tackle points.
- Total Participation: 61 teams across three major districts.
The final was attended by a host of distinguished figures, including Haryana Steelers Head Coach Manpreet Singh and PKL Season 11 star Vinay Tewathia. Their presence underscored the franchise’s commitment to creating a professional pathway for local talent. Coach Manpreet Singh expressed his admiration for the high level of competition, noting that such platforms are essential for bridging the gap between grassroots athletics and professional sporting careers.
With a total prize pool of ₹5 Lakhs, the HS Cup has set a new standard for youth kabaddi in the region. By integrating high-stakes competition with talent identification, the Haryana Steelers are successfully building a sustainable ecosystem for the sport. This inaugural edition not only celebrated the spirit of kabaddi but also identified the next generation of stars ready to represent the state on the national stage.
