Kodagu to Host Karnataka’s First State Athletic Meet for Deaf Students

This is the first time such a state-level athletic meet is being organised exclusively for deaf students in Karnataka. (Image used for representative purposes only)

Gonikoppal: Gonikoppal in Kodagu will play host to a landmark sports event for the deaf community with the 1st Karnataka State Inter-School/Institution Athletic Championship of the Deaf scheduled to be held on September 12, 2025. The championship will take place at the KALS School Stadium in Gonikoppal and will see participation from over 200 students from 15 districts across Karnataka.

This is the first time such a state-level athletic meet is being organised exclusively for deaf students in Karnataka. The event is being spearheaded by the Kodagu District Deaf Association (KDDA), under the leadership of its president, Gowroo M. Somanna. A native of Kunda, Ponnampet in South Kodagu, Ms Gowroo has dedicated her life to working for the deaf community. A former Assistant Instructor at TTCD Bengaluru, she has also been a successful entrepreneur and a recipient of numerous honours including the President’s National Award and the State Award from the Governor of Karnataka.

KDDA expressed gratitude to the Board of KALS School for offering the stadium and providing free lunch to participants. The association is also working to arrange accommodation and transport for all students, and is currently seeking sponsors and donors to help cover costs for trophies, medals, and refreshments.

“We hope the public will support this event and come forward with contributions,” said Ms. Gowroo in a mail communication to The Kodagu Express, urging the local community, institutions, and businesses to help make the event a success.

Those interested in offering support, sponsorships or assistance may contact Ms Gowroo M. Somanna via WhatsApp or SMS at +91 93424 02527 or email her at kodagudistrictdeafassociation2017@gmail.com (As she is deaf, she kindly requests that all communication be made through WhatsApp, SMS, or email.)

The championship marks a significant step towards inclusion and recognition for deaf athletes in Karnataka.

To advertise on The Kodagu Express website, kindly call us at 9108795369 or mail us at thekodaguexpress@gmail.com 

Join The Kodagu Express WhatsApp Group: CLICK HERE 

Follow us on Instagram and X(Twitter)