The victorious Colombo University hockey team: Standing from left: Uvini Abeysinghe, Iwandi Premachandra, Kithmi Madawala, Sanudi Yapa, Dewmini Weerasinghe, Sanduni Wickramaarachchi, Baghya Wijerathne, Savini Rathnayaka, Rashmi Lakshani, Hashini Manthunga, Senadi Perera, Hasali Gunasekara, Sanduni Siriwardhana Yasodha Sammani. Seated from left: Yadeesha Weerasinghe, Thesmi Gunasekara (Captain), Rohan Dissanayake (Coach), Sujan Walgampaya (Instructor), Sachini Herath (Vice Captain), Thushari Sinhalamudalige
In a remarkable showcase of skill, determination, and exceptional teamwork, the University of Colombo women’s hockey team emerged as unbeaten champions at the 14th Sri Lanka University Games, held from August 25 to 28, 2023. The team’s remarkable
journey through the tournament was a testament to their unwavering dedication, exceptional teamwork, and outstanding skill. From the outset of the tournament, the University of Colombo team asserted their dominance with a resounding 3-0 triumph over the University of Wayamba.
This strong start set the tone for their subsequent matches, where they continued to shine. Notably, they achieved an impressive 4-0 victory against the University of Moratuwa, showcasing their relentless pursuit of excellence.
The quarter-finals proved to be no challenge for the University of Colombo women, as they soared to an astonishing 8-0 victory over the University of Rajarata. This formidable display of skill and teamwork solidified their position as strong contenders for the championship. As the tournament advanced to the semi-finals, the University of Ruhuna was unable to match the prowess of the University of Colombo, who secured a 2-0 win and advanced to the finals. In the climactic championship match, the University of Colombo faced off against the University of Sri Jayawardanapura in a nail-biting contest.
The culmination of their efforts throughout the tournament led to a close-fought 1-0 victory, a testament to the team’s determination and unyielding spirit.
The leadership of Captain Thesmi Gunasekara played a pivotal role in the team’s success.
Her strategic acumen and on-field guidance were instrumental in steering the team towards victory.
Under her guidance, the attacking line comprising strikers Baghya Wijerathne, Sanudi Yapa, Yasodha Sammani, Hashini Manthunga, and Sanduni Siriwardhana, showcased exceptional skill, contributing to the team’s consistent goal-scoring performance. The midfielders, under the leadership of Vice Captain Sachini Herath, displayed unwavering dedication and exceptional teamwork. Thushari Sinhalamudalige, Uvini Abeysinghe, Kithmi Madawala, Rashmi Lakshani, Hasali Gunasekara, and Iwandi Premachandra formed an impenetrable barrier against their opponents, enabling the team’s success in critical matches.
The defenders, including Dewmini Weerasinghe, Yadeesha Weerasinghe, and Senadi Perera, fortified the team’s backline with their resolute defense. Goalkeepers Savini Rathnayaka and Sanduni Wickramaarachchi showcased remarkable agility and unwavering resilience throughout the tournament, making crucial saves and securing the team’s victories.
Under the astute coaching of veteran coach Rohan Dissanayake and the guidance of Team Manager Sujan Walgampaya, the University of Colombo women’s hockey team exhibited a seamless blend of strategy, skill, and teamwork throughout and did not concede even a single goal to their opponents in the entire tournament. This unblemished run showcased their prowess and commitment to the sport, ultimately crowning them as worthy champions.
This victory not only marks a historic moment for the University of Colombo who has been in SLUG finals on 05 occasions since 2007 winning three and becoming runner-up on two occasions, but also solidifies their legacy in women’s hockey.
The post University of Colombo Strikes Hockey Gold appeared first on DailyNews.