Will the Shooting League of India Uncover New Talent?

New Delhi, June 4 (NationPress) Anjum Moudgil, an Arjuna Award-winning rifle shooter, has shared her excitement about the newly launched Shooting League of India (SLI), stating that it will play a significant role in discovering new talent and aiding athletes in their preparation for international competitions.

The first edition of the Shooting League of India was announced by the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) last month, scheduled to take place from November 20 to December 2. The tournament will feature a mix of esteemed national and international competitors.

“This is a groundbreaking league, and I am thrilled about it. Having participated in this sport for 17 years, I’ve witnessed its remarkable growth. Establishing a league for shooting will enhance the sport’s visibility, allowing audiences to appreciate its intricate aspects,” Anjum remarked.

The 31-year-old believes that such a tournament will be invaluable for athletes gearing up for global contests. “A league can greatly assist athletes in preparing for international tournaments as we have adhered to a specific pattern for years, especially us senior athletes,” she added.

“Historically, we have approached competitions in a particular manner. However, the new generation is incredibly self-assured and eager to gain as much experience as possible. Therefore, leagues like this can be immensely beneficial, and I am excited about it,” she emphasized.

Moudgil believes that the inclusion of international athletes will provide essential exposure for younger competitors. “The exchange of expertise regarding the sport can pave the way for a strategic plan for India,” she noted.

“When you incorporate international players into a league, it enhances learning opportunities and experience. The key transformation in any sports community is adapting to changes introduced by foreign influences,” Moudgil stated.

“It’s fundamentally about the mindset. Learning from them and having them compete here will greatly improve our sport. The SLI will indeed help discover more talent across the nation,” she concluded.

The inaugural season of the SLI will feature mixed team events in various categories: pistol (10M, 25M), rifle (10M, 50M 3P), and shotgun (trap & skeet), as determined by the NRAI Technical Committee. The competition will include six to eight teams divided into two groups of four during the league stage.

Players will be categorized into four tiers – Elite Champions, World Elite, National Champions, and Junior & Youth Championships – to ensure a balance between seasoned veterans and rising stars.