PANAJI
Goa’s table tennis fraternity is mourning the passing of coach, mentor and former State champion Ulhas Raikar, who played a significant role in developing young players in the State.
Raikar, who died after a battle with cancer, was remembered not only for his achievements as a player but also for his selfless commitment to nurturing young talent. Among the players he coached were Tanisi Kirtani, Ishita Colaso, Yug Prabhu, Ruhaan Shaikh, Urvi Surlakar and Anaya Shukla.
Goa Table Tennis Association (GTTA) president Sudin Verenkar described his death as a major loss for the sport.
“Ulhas has made an immense contribution to table tennis in Goa. He introduced a large number of players to the sport and was a person without any complications. Never one to complain, he was much loved and respected by the entire fraternity. His passing is a huge loss for Goa and for table tennis.”
GTTA vice-president Vikram Verlekar recalled Raikar’s influence on his daughter, national-ranked player Trisha Verlekar.
“Ulhas, Trisha’s first table tennis coach, was a wonderful mentor who played an important role in her early journey. We are deeply saddened by his passing... May his memories continue to inspire all the young players he guided.”
Former Goa State champion and coach Agnelo Naik said Raikar always put the player’s development ahead of rivalry between academies.
“We were competing for players, competing at tournaments and naturally wanting our own academies to succeed. Yet Ulhas never allowed that rivalry to become personal," Naik said.
"There were occasions when he himself would call and say that a particular player had reached a certain level and needed something more. He would ask me to take the player and help them progress. His only concern was whether that young player could become better. That tells you everything about Ulhas.”
For Goa’s under-11 champion Anaya Shukla, one phrase summed up her coach’s belief in his players: “Karegi woh” — his quiet way of telling her that she could do it.
Top Goa player Ishita Colaso credited Raikar with recognising her potential and shaping her career.
“Sir, it was you who saw potential in me. After Tanisi, you said I was a player worth watching and training. With your efforts and training, I reached this level. You made us players, taught us to be obedient children and showed us what sportsmanship means. We will always miss you.”
National ranking bronze medallist Yug Yogesh Prabhu offered a brief tribute. “Thank you, sir, for finding potential in me, shaping me, inspiring me, and making me who I am today.”
Before becoming one of Goa’s most respected coaches, Raikar enjoyed an outstanding playing career. Veteran player Leslie Noronha recalled that he competed in 12 Open Nationals, two School Nationals, more than 20 zonal tournaments and won over 53 All-Goa titles.
“I feel privileged to have shared the table with Ulhas in his last competitive tournament in June 2024, just days before his first surgery. We were partners, and together we had a wonderful outing, winning most of our matches. Rest in peace, my dear friend. You will be deeply, deeply missed.”
Sandeep Heble remembered Raikar’s fearless style during the Angley’s Cup final in the late 1980s, when he produced a memorable upset against then Goa champion Noel Noronha.
“Noel’s attacking topspins, one after another, were calmly negated by Ulhas with his unique Phantom rubber, which was quite distinctive in those days. Noel’s team eventually won the match, but for those watching, the man of the match had to be Ulhas. The spectators were treated to sheer class of table tennis.”
Heble said Raikar’s legacy extended far beyond his achievements on the table.
“Ulhas will always remain that player I watched all those years ago — fearless, unconventional and capable of producing something special on occasions. From a talented player at the table to a coach and mentor who devoted 17 years to developing the next generation, Ulhas leaves behind a legacy that goes far beyond his own achievements.”
