Jhajjar: Two players of Jhajjar, Tamanna and Sakshi, have made it to the Indian women’s team for the inaugural FIH Para Hockey World Cup.The tournament, scheduled to be held from August 20 to 24 in the Netherlands and Belgium, will bring together teams from 16 countries. Besides India, the participating nations include Belgium, the Netherlands, Malaysia, Pakistan, France, Germany, Japan, Ireland, Italy, the United States, Bulgaria, Chile, England, Spain and Uzbekistan.Tamanna, a 15-year-old student of Savera Special School, has emerged as one of the notable success stories behind the team’s selection. She has been included in the Indian squad as a midfielder and can also take up the responsibility of a goalkeeper.According to school principal Lokesh Kumar, Tamanna joined the school about a year ago. Initially, she was often aggressive, became angry over minor issues and frequently quarrelled with other children.Through sustained counselling, coupled with regular exposure to sports and social activities, teachers gradually helped channel her energy into constructive pursuits. Her behaviour began to change, and she developed a keen interest in sports.Sakshi, around 20, has been associated with Savera Special School for the past 11 years. She has been selected as a defender in the Indian team.Lokesh Kumar said Sakshi was extremely withdrawn when she first joined the school and rarely interacted with others. Teachers gradually introduced her to group activities and a range of sports, helping her gain confidence and become more socially engaged.Sakshi has also demonstrated sporting ability in cycling and weightlifting. This year, she was prepared for hockey competitions under the Special Olympics programme. Following an impressive performance, she was selected for the Indian para hockey team.The Indian para hockey squad features players from several states, including Punjab, Delhi, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Kerala and Himachal Pradesh.
