University officials expressed confidence that successfully hosting the tournament would significantly enhance VSU’s national ranking and called for everyone's support to make the event a grand success.
Nellore: Preparations are in full swing at Vikrama Simhapuri University (VSU), Kakutur, to host the prestigious All-India Inter-University Softball Tournament from April 30 to May 8. Over 3,000 players, representing 94 women’s teams and 97 men’s teams from across various states, are going to participate, announced Dr K. Sunitha, in-charge registrar of VSU, during a press conference on Monday.
The women’s tournament will take place from April 30 to May 3, followed by the men’s tournament from May 4 to May 8. Matches will begin daily at 6.30 am, with around 35 matches scheduled per day across five courts set up on the campus. The inaugural ceremony will take place at 4 pm on April 30, with Sarvepalli MLA Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy and Kovur MLA Vemireddy Prashanthi Reddy attending as chief guests.
The women's tournament closing ceremony, scheduled for May 3, will be graced by Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy and Prof. V. Uma, Vice Chancellor of Padmavati Mahila University, Tirupati. The men's tournament inauguration on May 4 will feature Andhra Pradesh sports minister Ram Prasad Reddy and district ministers Ponguru Narayana and Anam Ramanarayana Reddy. District MPs, Rajya Sabha members and other dignitaries will also attend various stages of the tournament. Around 40 national-level umpires and referees have been appointed to ensure the smooth conduct of the tourney.
VSU has made extensive arrangements, including hostel accommodations and additional facilities for players and staff, supported by donations from local colleges. Transportation and help desks have been set up at railway stations and bus stands for the convenience of participants. Food arrangements include South Indian and North Indian cuisine stalls and continuous water and power supply have been coordinated with district authorities.
University officials expressed confidence that successfully hosting the tournament would significantly enhance VSU’s national ranking and called for everyone's support to make the event a grand success. University College principal Prof. C.H. Vijaya, PRO Dr K. Neelamanikantha, Tournament Committee members Dr. P Prasad Reddy, Venkateswarlu, Dr A. Praveen Kumar and Manikantha were present at the press meet.
