The Colombo Junior Men’s Hockey Team etched their name in Sri Lankan hockey history once again, clinching the 46th Junior National Men’s Hockey Championship in a thrilling finale held in Matale. With this victory, the Colombo side achieved a remarkable hat-trick of titles, securing the national crown for the third consecutive year — a testament to their consistency, talent, and dominance at the junior level.
The journey to the title was anything but easy. Facing fierce competition from some of the country’s best young teams, the Colombo lads displayed skill, composure, and a never-say-die attitude throughout the tournament.
Their campaign began with a 4–4 draw against a resilient Defence Services Hockey Association team, setting the tone for a competitive run ahead. Colombo quickly found their rhythm in the next encounter, overpowering Wennappuwa Hockey Association with an emphatic 5–2 victory, showcasing their attacking flair and tactical discipline.
In the quarterfinals, Colombo produced a commanding performance against Sri Lanka Schools Hockey Association (Maroons), cruising to a 5–0 win, before defeating Sri Lanka Universities Sports Association 3–0 in the semifinals, sealing their spot in the grand finale.
The much-anticipated final against hosts Matale Hockey Association turned out to be a pulsating encounter, played before an electrifying home crowd. Despite Matale’s reputation as a hockey powerhouse and the advantage of home turf, Colombo held their nerve to edge out a 3–2 victory, silencing the stands and reaffirming their supremacy in Sri Lankan junior hockey.
Adding further glory to Colombo’s triumph, Ross Abner Fernando was named Player of the Tournament, recognizing his outstanding performances and leadership on the field throughout the championship.
The championship-winning squad was led by Captain Dulanka Perera, supported by Vice Captains Pansilu Udara and Thulana M. Mahaarachchi. The full roster included Kushan Hirudika, Ushira Warshavithana, Adithya Visal, Ross Abner Fernando, Methushel Fernando, Ragawan Kogul, Radeesher I. Jayakodi, Januda Rathnayake, Mark Ruiz, Danidu Anjana, Jamal Lafir, Ashan V. Mendis, Senura Liyanage, Oshen Jayasekara, and John Nathenia.
Behind the scenes, the team was guided by an experienced management and coaching staff — Rasika Ranaweera (Manager), Lashitha Hettiarachchi (Assistant Manager), Kavindu Nayomal (Head Coach), and Abeetha Fernando (Assistant Coach) — whose strategic insight and motivation were instrumental in shaping the team’s championship journey.
The Colombo Hockey Association’s junior program continues to be a model of excellence, producing talented players who carry the torch for the next generation of Sri Lankan hockey. This year’s victory, achieved against the formidable Matale team on their home turf, stands as a defining moment — one that not only highlights Colombo’s dominance but also signals a bright and promising future for the sport.
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