Shreya Talwar Wins Gold at CISCE Nationals, Qualifies for SGFI Games
Greenwood High’s Karate Star Shines at National Level
In a remarkable display of skill, discipline, and determination, Shreya Talwar, a student of Greenwood High School, Bannerghatta, secured a Gold medal in the Under-19 category at the CISCE National Championship held at the Padukone Dravid Centre for Sport Excellence, Bengaluru, from September 16 to 18, 2025. With this stellar achievement, Shreya earned her place at the prestigious School Games Federation of India (SGFI) Games, representing her school and state on the national stage.
The CISCE National Championship is a competitive platform that brings together the finest student-athletes across India. Shreya’s victory in the Under-19 category is a testament to her consistent excellence, perseverance, and sportsmanship, highlighting her as one of the nation’s emerging stars in karate.
A Journey of Consistent Excellence
Shreya’s journey to the national podium was not a sudden triumph but the result of years of dedication and rigorous training. Her rise began at the zonal level, where she showcased remarkable talent, earning recognition for her technique, agility, and strategic prowess. She then advanced through state-level competitions, consistently outperforming her peers and establishing herself as a formidable contender.
At each stage of the championship, Shreya demonstrated her physical capabilities and mental strength, a critical factor in competitive karate. Her ability to focus under pressure, anticipate opponents’ moves, and execute precise strikes has become her hallmark. This combination of skill, strategy, and composure culminated in her Gold medal performance at the CISCE Nationals, earning her a coveted spot at the SGFI Games.
Expert Guidance and Mentorship
A key factor behind Shreya’s success has been the expert mentorship of Shreeja Sunil, Founder of JSKI – Japan Shotokan Karate Do India. Shreeja Sunil is a WKF-accredited Karate Coach, KIO Karnataka Team Coach, and CISCE National Coach, bringing a wealth of experience and insight to her training methods.
Under Shreeja’s guidance, Shreya has honed her skills in both technical execution and tactical planning, focusing on mastering karate forms, kumite techniques, and competitive strategies. Beyond physical training, Shreeja has instilled in Shreya the values of discipline, perseverance, humility, and sportsmanship, which have been pivotal in shaping her approach to competition.
Shreya’s coach emphasizes the importance of mental preparation and character building alongside skill development, making her students not only athletes but also ambassadors of the sport. This holistic mentorship has allowed Shreya to grow as a well-rounded athlete, ready to face national and international competition pressures.
Beyond the Medal: A Role Model for Young Athletes
Shreya’s achievement extends beyond personal accolades. Her Gold medal symbolizes dedication, hard work, and integrity, qualities that inspire her peers and aspiring athletes. At Greenwood High School, her performance has sparked enthusiasm among students, encouraging greater participation in sports and physical activities.
Her sportsmanship, characterized by respect for opponents and a humble approach to victory, highlights the values-based foundation of competitive sports. Shreya’s journey demonstrates that success in athletics is not solely about winning but also about cultivating discipline, focus, and resilience—qualities that benefit students both on and off the mat.
SGFI Games: The Next Challenge
With the SGFI Games on the horizon, Shreya will now compete against the best young athletes from across India, bringing with her personal ambition and the pride of her school and state. The SGFI Games are recognized for identifying talent at a national level and providing exposure to higher-level competitions, often serving as a stepping stone to international participation.
For Shreya, participation in the SGFI Games represents an opportunity to further her sporting career, gain experience against diverse competitors, and showcase her skills on a larger platform. Her performance will be closely watched by coaches, scouts, and sports authorities, all eager to spot emerging talent capable of representing India in international karate competitions.
Balancing Academics and Athletics
One remarkable aspect of Shreya’s journey is her ability to balance academic responsibilities with rigorous training schedules. Greenwood High School has been instrumental in providing support and creating an environment where students can excel in sports without compromising their studies. Flexible schedules, academic mentoring, and teacher encouragement have allowed Shreya to pursue her passion for karate while maintaining strong academic performance.
This balance is critical for young athletes aspiring to succeed in competitive sports while preparing for higher education and professional careers. Shreya’s example demonstrates that excellence in both domains is possible with the right support and determination.
The Future of Indian Karate
Shreya Talwar’s achievements reflect the growing strength of karate in India. With increased access to training facilities like the Padukone Dravid Centre for Sport Excellence, expert coaching, and structured competitions, young athletes are increasingly making their mark on national and international stages.
Her success highlights the importance of mentorship, infrastructure, and holistic development in nurturing sports talent. By combining technical training with character development, coaches like Shreeja Sunil ensure that athletes are not only medal winners but also ambassadors of sportsmanship and integrity.
Conclusion
Shreya Talwar’s Gold medal at the CISCE National Championship and her qualification for the SGFI Games mark a significant milestone in her sporting career. Her journey from zonal and state-level competitions to national glory illustrates the power of dedication, mentorship, and resilience.
As she prepares for the SGFI Games, Shreya carries with her the hopes and pride of Greenwood High School and Karnataka. She inspires a new generation of athletes to pursue excellence in sports while upholding the values of discipline, perseverance, and humility. Her story reaffirms that young athletes with vision, training, and support can reach remarkable heights, shaping the future of Indian sports on the national and international stage.