NOC SL committed to empowering youth athletes at Asian Youth Games 2025 - NOC SL President

Wednesday, 15 October 2025 00:14 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka President Suresh Subramaniam

Sri Lanka is poised to make a strong impression at the third Asian Youth Games 2025 in Manama, Bahrain from 22 October till 31 October. Sri Lanka will send 56 boys and 44 girls a total of 100 athletes in 12 sports.

National Olympic Committee, Sri Lanka President Suresh Subramaniam speaking to Daily FT said, “This milestone not only reflects the growing depth of our youth talent but also the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka steadfast commitment to nurturing the next generation of sporting excellence. We are sending the largest contingent of 100 youths with 50 officials and I am very confident they will bring glory to the country.

Suresh contented and said, “The Asian Youth Games provide an invaluable platform for young athletes to experience the spirit of continental competition. Competing against Asia’s finest is a challenge that builds resilience, confidence, and ambition all vital ingredients for future champions. Our mission at NOC SL is to ensure that every athlete, regardless of their discipline, receives the exposure and support necessary to grow beyond national boundaries. As I mentioned during the team’s announcement, while we would love to see every athlete return with a medal, our greater objective is on the exposure these young athletes going to gain at international stage. The lessons learned in Manama will undoubtedly shape these young sportsmen and women into the future torchbearers of Sri Lankan sport.

Suresh concluded, “NOC SL, together with Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs, has worked tirelessly to ensure every aspect of the contingent’s preparation from logistics to wellbeing is handled with care. This year, we are introducing a Safeguarding Officer Gobinath Sivarajah, to ensure the safety and welfare of all participating minors, marking a significant step forward in athlete protection. Further we had several sessions for these youngsters as majority will be travelling overseas for the very first time. Further thankful for Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs on sponsoring the tour plus LOVI and Carnage sponsorship.” (SJ)