KATHMANDU, Feb 27: Star-studded Shivam New Diamond Academy has started the ongoing fourth NST-NVA National Women’s and Men’s Volleyball Tournament with an easy three-set win over Chitwan Padmodaya Youth Club on Monday.

Outstanding performance by New Diamond members, including national player Pratibha Mali and new signees Manju Gurung and Aruna Shahi, helped the team register a 25-14, 25-12, 25-18 win over Padmodaya at the National Sports Council (NSC)’s Covered Hall in Tripureshwar, Kathmandu. 

Both Gurung and Shahi were signed by New Diamond this year. Shahi made her debut for the franchise in the ongoing competition; and Gurung was introduced for the club in the Prime Minister Cup Women’s Volleyball Tournament that concluded last week in Nepalgunj. New Diamond had lost to Armed Police Force in the competitive final of 12-25, 25-21, 25-16, 21-25, 19-17.

New Diamond coach Kumar Rai said that his team has become even stronger with the presence of experienced national team stars like Gurung and Shahi. “Our target is winning the title,” added Rai.
He said that Gurung and Shahi were given opportunity to play in his team since Western Region did not participate in the ongoing tournament.  “National players like Gurung and Shahi were roped in by New Diamond after Western did not participate in the event. To prevent them from staying idle, we approached them to play for our club.”

“After their arrival, our team is set now. Now, no other team from across the country will be able to defeat us. 

Similarly in another match under women’s category, departmental team Nepal Police Club defeated Jawalakhel Volleyball Training Center 25-11, 25-10, 25-12. 

In men’s category, Help Nepal Sports Club and Nepal Police Club registered victories.
Help Nepal overcame Mani Mukund Sports Club in an entertaining four sets match with the scores of 25-18, 23-25, 25-21, 34-32. 

In another match under men’s category, Nepal Police comfortably defeated Naya Bazaar Social Club in straight sets of 25-6, 25-9, 25-14.

 
• starstudded
 
• diamond