ISLAMABAD: Defending champions Wapda came from behind to defeat Army 3-1 and retained the National Women’s Volleyball Championship crown here at the Liaquat Gymnasium of Pakistan Sports Complex on Friday.

Army edged Wapda in the first set 26-24, however it proved to be a wake-up call for the champions as they won the three consecutive sets 25-18, 25-14 and 25-20 to retain the title.

Earlier, Higher Education Commission outclassed Sindh 25-18, 25-10 and 25-15 to take the third slot in the championship.

Azra Farooq from Wapda declared best player of the championship while Tayyaba Ali from Wapda won best libero and Aleesha Junaid from Army awarded best setter of the championship.

Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Youth Affairs Shaza Fatima Khawaja was the chief guest of the closing ceremony while Senator Khushbakht Shujaat, Chairman of Pakistan Volleyball Federation Chaudhry Muhammad Yaqoob were also among the guests.

“Women have been working hard in every field and proving their mettle. The government will support volleyball including all sports at all levels,” Shaza said while speaking at the ceremony after the tournament concluded. “Support programs for sportspersons will be launched so that young girls can come forward from the grass-roots level.” She further informed.

Published in Dawn, February 11th, 2023