In a moment of immense pride for Poonch, Abhilove Kour, a proud daughter of the region and a member of the Indian women's national lacrosse team, received a grand welcome upon her return home after winning a historic gold medal at the Asian Lacrosse Games held in Riyadh.
Abhilove returned to her hometown for the first time following India's victory in the continental tournament, bringing immense honor not only to Poonch but to the entire nation.
Playing as a defender, she delivered a crucial performance in the final match, demonstrating remarkable skill, resilience, and composure under pressure. Her defensive brilliance played a key role in securing India's victory and crowning them champions.
As she entered Poonch, jubilant crowds lined the streets, showering her with flower petals and chanting slogans in her praise. The celebrations included traditional music, cultural performances, and a grand procession. Several civil society organizations presented her with shawls, mementos, and bouquets in recognition of her dedication and hard work.
Speaking on the occasion, Abhilove Kour expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Poonch for their unwavering support. She described representing India on the international stage and winning gold as a dream come true. Dedicating the medal to her hometown, she encouraged young girls to pursue sports fearlessly and strive for excellence.
Local leaders and prominent citizens hailed her achievement as a milestone for sports development in the region. They noted that her success would inspire aspiring athletes, especially from remote and border areas, to aim high and believe in their potential.
The grand reception reflected the deep emotional bond between Abhilove Kour and her hometown. Her victory at the Asian Lacrosse Games in Riyadh has not only etched her name in sporting history but also ignited fresh hope and enthusiasm for sports in Poonch.