Jalandhar Govt School’s judo academy produces multiple national gold medallists

A Judo academy for government school students in Jalandhar has turned a long-held dream into a successful training centre, producing several national-level gold medallists.

The Judo Wing, started at the Government Senior Model School, Ladowali Road, is currently training 50 students—many from underprivileged families—free of cost. Though the programme originated at the Senior Model School, its training hall now operates at the Government School of Excellence on Ladowali Road.

Established in 1978 by then-Physical Education teacher RKS Dhawan, this was Jalandhar’s first initiative to train children in Judo. The academy has since evolved into a robust institution under the leadership of Surinder Kumar, who took over as coach and manager in 1994. Kumar oversees everything from coaching and providing Judo kits to ensuring proper diets for the players.

The academy’s students have made a significant mark, with Shivansh Vashisht and Nakul winning gold at the Khelo India Youth Games this year. Players Shivansh, Nakul, Karan, Sahil and girl player Khanak have also secured gold medals in the National School Games.

Surinder Kumar said, “RKS Dhawan planted a sapling that has grown into a strong tree. Every year, over 15 students from the academy qualify for the National Games. What began with just mattresses has now become a state-of-the-art facility. Free Judo kits are provided to each student. We currently have over 50 students—15 to 20 girls and the rest boys. Our students won multiple golds at this year’s Khelo India Games.”

The academy runs on generous donations from philanthropists and sports lovers, with patronage from the school authorities. Special attention is given to players’ nutrition; the academy supplies milk packets to those whose families cannot afford them, reflecting a holistic approach to nurturing talent.

This government-run Judo academy stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for many young athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds, proving that dedication and support can turn a modest dream into a national success story.