PANAJI
From the beach to the big leagues, Goa is set to make waves in Indian volleyball. The Prime Volleyball League (PVL) announced the addition of its tenth franchise, the Goa Guardians, marking a significant expansion ahead of Season 4, which kicks off on October 2, 2025.
Backed by Raju Chekuri, chairman and CEO of Netenrich, the Guardians will represent Goa's debut on the national volleyball stage”a move Chekuri describes as part of a broader vision to elevate Indian volleyball to Olympic heights.
"... It is more than just a team launch, it’s a long-term investment in Indian volleyball. Our mission is to unlock the incredible athletic potential across rural and urban India, and build a globally competitive platform for talent," said Chekuri.
"My dream is to see India compete at the Olympics within the next decade. But that’s only possible if we work together as one league, one vision, to provide massive competitive exposure and world-class development. Goa Guardians is committed to that cause."
The PVL, which has been steadily expanding by one team each season, now boasts ten franchises, underscoring its status as one of India’s fastest-growing professional sports leagues. The full roster includes: Ahmedabad Defenders, Bengaluru Torpedoes, Calicut Heroes, Chennai Blitz, Delhi Toofans, Hyderabad Black Hawks, Kochi Blue Spikers, Kolkata Thunderbolts, Mumbai Meteors”and now, the Goa Guardians.
Goa’s entry is seen as a long-overdue recognition of the State's passion for volleyball, a sport that has quietly flourished in local communities despite the dominance of football.
The Season 4 player auction, featuring over 160 athletes, will take place on June 8 in Calicut, with all the action streamed live on PVL’s official YouTube channel.
