Panaji
Recently, RCC Salvador Do Mundo’s boxing team has claimed its 8th consecutive title at the All-Goa Sub-Junior and Junior Boys and Girls State Boxing Championship, solidifying its position as the dominant force in Goan boxing.
The RCC Salvador Do Mundo boxing team has claimed its 8th consecutive title at the All-Goa Sub-Junior and Junior Boys and Girls State Boxing Championship, continuing its dominance in Goan boxing. The team finished with 6 gold and 9 silver medals, totaling 36 points, outshining its competitors and securing another victory for the 8th consecutive year.
Coach Chitambaram Naik, who has led the team to victory year after year, expressed pride in his athletes’ achievements. "Winning for 8 years in a row is no small feat. It shows their dedication, especially considering the challenges we face with our remote location and limited transport options," said Naik. He emphasized that their success is due to a balanced approach to training, which focuses on both physical fitness and mental strength. "It's not just about boxing skills, it's about discipline, consistency, and hard work," he added.
Naik’s coaching philosophy is rooted in his experience with the Indian national boxing team, including the Olympic squad. He believes in a holistic approach that covers physical fitness, mental health, and nutrition. "Good nutrition doesn't have to be expensive. I work with dietitians to ensure the athletes are eating right," Naik explained.
The team’s training sessions are carefully structured to improve both fitness and boxing technique. Morning sessions focus on fitness, endurance, and strength, while the evening sessions are dedicated to refining boxing skills like attack, defense, and counter-attacks.
This year, RCC Salvador Do Mundo sent 19 athletes to the championship, where they won 6 gold and 9 silver medals.
Naik is optimistic about the future of boxing in Goa, believing it offers great career opportunities for athletes who perform well at national competitions. "Several of my trainees are now training with the Indian Sports Department, and they’re doing really well," he said. Boxing also opens up career options in the Indian Army and Goa Police for athletes who excel.
Naik is passionate about boxing not just as a sport, but as a way to build discipline, confidence, and fitness. "Boxing is not just about fighting. It’s about becoming stronger both physically and mentally," he said. The club also welcomes people from all walks of life, including doctors, engineers, and football players, who come to improve their fitness and mental resilience.
Naik also praised the support of the Goa Boxing Association, the Sports Authority of Goa, and the state sports department for helping the sport grow. The introduction of financial rewards for national medalists has further motivated athletes. Gold medalists now receive Rs 30,000, silver medalists Rs 25,000, and bronze medalists Rs 20,000.
"If more young people get involved and work hard, they can achieve great things in boxing and in life," he said.
