Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: The Indian Judo team has been announced for the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Games, scheduled to be held in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 27 to August 2. Shraddha Kadubal Chopade, a 'Golden Girl' from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, has been selected for the Indian squad in the 52 kg weight category; she is the only athlete from Maharashtra to qualify for this prestigious event. A resident of Tisgaon, she trains at the 'Shrimati Parmeshwari Devani Judo Club' in Bajajnagar.
Grand Felicitation by Bajajnagar Judo Club
To mark this historic achievement, the Bajajnagar Judo Club organized a grand felicitation ceremony for Shraddha Chopade, her mother Jyoti Chopade, and her father Kadubal Chopade, presenting them with bouquets and mementos while extending best wishes for the upcoming tournament. Shraddha receives guidance from Arjuna Award-winning coach Yashpal Solanki, as well as Madhushree Desai, Bhimraj Rahane, Ashok Jangme, and her father, Kadubal Chopade. She is currently undergoing rigorous training under the mentorship of Yashpal Solanki at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) center in Bhopal.
A Haul of Medals
Shraddha was recently conferred with Maharashtra's prestigious 'Shiv Chhatrapati State Sports Award'. Her performance record has been stellar; she has won 3 gold, 3 silver, and 3 bronze medals in international competitions, and has secured 11 gold, 7 silver, and 2 bronze medals at the national level. She also clinched a gold medal at last year's National Games.
Appeal for Financial Assistance
Shraddha is currently in urgent need of financial assistance to facilitate her participation in international competitions as she represents the country on the global stage. It is hoped that if a prominent entrepreneur or sponsor from Maharashtra provides her with financial support, her trajectory of success will rise even further on the international stage, potentially enabling her to realize the dream of winning an Olympic medal for the country.
Following her selection, Shailesh Tilak (President, Maharashtra Judo Association), Datta Afale (Secretary), Ajit Mule (President, District Judo Association), Atul Bamnodkar (Secretary), and District Sports Officer Bajirao Desai-along with numerous sports enthusiasts, coaches, and athletes from the district-have congratulated her and extended their best wishes for success at the Commonwealth Games.