Sharath Kamal Partners With MAHE Manipal To Establish High-Performance Centre For Table Tennis In India

Indian table tennis legend Achanta Sharath Kamal, a recipient of the Arjuna Award, Khel Ratna, and Padma Shri, has partnered with Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) to transform the future of table tennis in India. This landmark collaboration aims to establish a High-Performance Centre for Table Tennis in Manipal, providing a world-class training environment and nurturing grassroots talent while driving innovation in sports science and athlete development.

The partnership was officially announced at a ceremony where Sharath Kamal, alongside MAHE’s leadership, emphasized their shared vision for fostering excellence in sports. The proposed centre will boast state-of-the-art infrastructure, elite coaching, and access to integrated support systems, including sports science, nutrition, and psychological services. Sharath Kamal, who has consistently elevated Indian table tennis on the global stage, will play a hands-on role as a mentor, guiding young athletes toward success.

Speaking about this initiative, Sharath Kamal described it as a personal milestone. “This partnership is the realization of a lifelong dream. Having experienced the challenges faced by young athletes in India, I am committed to bridging the gaps in infrastructure and guidance. This High-Performance Centre is not just about producing champions; it is about fostering a culture of excellence where players can thrive as athletes and individuals. Together, we aim to elevate Indian table tennis to unparalleled heights.”

Dr. H.S. Ballal, Pro Chancellor of MAHE, highlighted the institution’s commitment to integrating academic and athletic excellence. “At MAHE, we have always prioritized the development of young talent by combining academic rigor with sports excellence. This collaboration with Sharath Kamal underscores our mission to create opportunities for athletes across the country. We are confident that with Sharath Kamal’s leadership, this centre will become a cornerstone for nurturing world-class talent in Indian table tennis.”

Dr. Sharath Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor of Health Sciences, also emphasized the critical role of health and well-being in sports. “Athletic performance is deeply linked to health. With MAHE’s advanced facilities in sports medicine, physiotherapy, and mental health, this centre will provide athletes with comprehensive care and support, enabling them to focus entirely on their game. This ecosystem will be pivotal in shaping a healthier and more competitive generation of athletes.”

The MoU signing ceremony brought together prominent figures in sports and academia, including international basketball player Jugan Sukavaneshwar, and senior MAHE officials Dr. Narayana Sabhahit, Dr. Raviraja N.S., Dr. Vinod Nayak, Dr. Anand Venugopal, Dr. Avinash Shetty, and Dr. Sandeep Shenoy. Dr Arun G Maiya, Mr.Ren Trevor Dias.Their presence underscored the significance of this initiative and its potential to reshape the landscape of table tennis in India.

This collaboration marks a pivotal moment for Indian sports, setting the stage for a transformational era in athlete development. The High-Performance Centre for Table Tennis will serve as a beacon of excellence, providing a platform for young players to compete on the global stage while fostering a culture of holistic athlete growth.