In a heartwarming moment at the Tamil Nadu Sports Journalists’ Association (TNSJA) Awards 2024-25, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) all-rounder Shivam Dube pledged ₹7 lakh towards scholarships for 10 emerging athletes from Tamil Nadu. The event, held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium (MAC) on Tuesday, celebrated rising stars from across a variety of sports disciplines.
Shivam Dube pledges support for young athletes
Dube, who was the chief guest at the awards, was visibly moved by the talent and dedication of the young sportspersons. In a spontaneous gesture, he contributed an additional ₹7 lakh to ensure that each of the 10 athletes received a full ₹1 lakh scholarship.
“These are the small achievements which help you change your mindset,” said Dube. “When you struggle, every amount and award counts. I will tell other States to adopt such initiatives.”
Dube, a T20 World Cup winner and Asian Games gold medallist, praised the TNSJA for recognizing and supporting young talent across different sports.
CSK continues commitment beyond cricket
K.S. Viswanathan, Managing Director of CSK and guest of honour, reaffirmed the franchise’s commitment to supporting sports development beyond cricket.
“CSK is committed to helping and promoting not only cricket but also other sports,” said Viswanathan, emphasizing the club’s long-standing involvement in grassroots initiatives.
Star-studded presence at the MAC Stadium
The event also featured prominent figures from the Indian sports community, including:
- Former India all-rounder Robin Singh
- MRF Pace Foundation coach M. Senthilnathan
- Former India hockey captain Mohammed Riaz
- TNTA Joint Secretary Prem Kumar Karra
- TNTA CEO Hiten Joshi
Scholarship winners: future stars of Tamil Nadu
Each athlete was awarded a ₹1 lakh scholarship in recognition of their dedication and potential. The TNSJA scholarship winners for 2024-25 are:
- P.B. Abhinandh (Table Tennis)
- K.S. Vhenisa Sree (Archery)
- Muthumeena Vellasami (Para Athletics)
- Shameena Riaz (Squash)
- S. Nandhana (Cricket)
- P. Kamali (Surfing)
- R. Abinaya (Athletics)
- R.C. Jithin Arjunan (Athletics)
- A. Takkshanth (Chess)
- R.K. Jayant (Cricket)
The scholarships are aimed at empowering athletes from different backgrounds, many of whom face financial hurdles in pursuing their sports careers. The initiative underscores how strategic support from high-profile entities like CSK and generous individuals like Shivam Dube can make a significant impact.
