Breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks, The International School Agra (TISA) created history by securing a bronze medal in the Under-19 Girls’ category at the CBSE National Badminton Championship 2025, the first-ever national badminton medal for Agra.
With this achievement, TISA has not only raised the city’s sporting profile but also inspired countless young athletes to aim higher.
This historic achievement has not only placed TISA among India’s leading schools in sports but has also set a new benchmark for determination, teamwork, and the power of consistent effort.
A Proud Moment for Agra and TISA
Held in Gohana district, Haryana, the CBSE National Championship saw participation from over 200 schools across India and abroad. Each team brought its best athletes, yet it was TISA’s young shuttlers who stood out with their discipline, energy, and unshakable focus.
The team, Palak Yadav, Sanghamitra Gautam, Aditi Paul, and Ishi Gupta, played with unmatched enthusiasm and teamwork throughout the tournament. Their journey wasn’t easy, but every match reflected their hard work and the school’s commitment to holistic development.
Speaking on the achievement, Sports Director and Badminton Coach Mr. Nandi Rawat said,
“This is not just a medal; it’s a milestone. The girls played with heart and strategy, facing strong opponents from across India. Their victory proves that talent, when nurtured with the right guidance and spirit, can make history.”
The Road to Bronze: A Story of Grit and Growth
The team’s success story began right from the first round, where they went head-to-head with The Choice School, Trivandrum, and claimed a decisive victory.
Building on that momentum, TISA’s team went on to defeat SGGS Oman, followed by a commanding win against Chinmaya Vidyalaya, Coonoor, and another confident performance against Silicon City Academy.
By the time they reached the quarterfinals, confidence was running high, but so was the pressure. Yet, Palak Yadav and Khushi (substitute player for doubles round) displayed exceptional skill, sealing TISA’s spot in the semifinals with impressive straight-set wins.
Though the semifinals proved to be a tougher challenge, and the team narrowly missed a spot in the finals, they finished strong, securing the bronze medal, marking Agra’s first-ever national medal in badminton.
Every match added a new layer of experience and confidence to these young athletes, shaping them into true champions both on and off the court.
The Faces Behind the Victory
Each player had a story of her own — and together, they became the backbone of TISA’s victory.
- Palak Yadav, known for her calm under pressure and sharp reflexes, became the team’s anchor during crucial points. Her composure in the quarterfinals match helped TISA clinch victory when it mattered most.
- Sanghamitra Gautam, a powerhouse of focus and resilience, brought unmatched energy to every match. Her powerful smashes and quick recoveries earned her admiration from players and spectators alike.
- Aditi Paul played with determination, balancing technical precision with smart gameplay. Her ability to read opponents’ moves turned several rallies in TISA’s favor.
- Ishi Gupta, the youngest in the team, showed exceptional maturity in her game — proving that age is no barrier when passion leads the way.
Coach Mr. Nandi Rawat’s training sessions, designed to build both stamina and strategy, helped the girls find their rhythm and maintain it through every round.
Support and Celebration from the TISA Family
The win sparked immense joy across the TISA campus. From the classroom corridors to the morning assemblies, the spirit of pride and celebration could be felt everywhere.
Director Mr. Sanjay Kalra, Managing Director Mrs. Sunaina Kalra, and Principal Mr. Abhay Mathur congratulated the team personally, appreciating their relentless effort and sportsmanship.
“This victory is not only about winning a medal,” said Principal Mr. Abhay Mathur. “It’s about showing what determination, teamwork, and good mentorship can achieve. Our students have proven that excellence in academics and sports can go hand in hand.”
The management also extended appreciation to Sports Director Mr. Nandi Rawat, whose consistent guidance, training methodology, and belief in his players played a crucial role in shaping this success.
Inspiration for Young Aspirants
For parents and students across Agra, TISA’s win serves as an inspiring reminder that sports are not just extracurricular activities; they are a platform for building resilience, focus, and leadership.
The team’s achievement is expected to spark greater interest in badminton within the school and across the city. TISA is already planning to enhance its sports infrastructure and training sessions, encouraging more students to explore competitive badminton.
Coach Rawat added,
“We want our students to believe that the national level isn’t beyond their reach. With dedication, every child in Agra has the potential to play for India someday.”
More Than a Medal: A New Beginning
This bronze medal isn’t just a trophy in TISA’s showcase — it’s a symbol of what can be achieved when passion meets opportunity. It’s proof that when schools invest in their students’ all-around development, the results go beyond academics.
From early morning practice sessions to intense match days, the team’s discipline and unity have redefined what it means to represent a school with pride. Their journey is a lesson in perseverance for every student who dreams big and for every parent who believes in nurturing those dreams.
As Agra celebrates this milestone, one thing is certain: TISA’s young champions have not only made their school proud but have also put Agra on the national badminton map.
Congratulations to the TISA Badminton Team!
- Bronze Medal – CBSE National Badminton Championship 2025
- Category: Under-19 Girls
- Team Members: Palak Yadav, Sanghamitra Gautam, Aditi Paul, and Ishi Gupta
- Coach: Mr. Nandi Rawat
- Event Venue: Gohana District, Haryana
The International School Agra continues to inspire, nurture, and celebrate every child’s potential in classrooms, on courts, and beyond.
Because at TISA, success isn’t just about winning — it’s about growing, learning, and making history together.
