In a significant development for Indian volleyball, Naveen Kumar Rai, the office superintendent at Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) in Varanasi, has been appointed as the observer for the Indian Railways Men's Team. This key role will see him contribute his expertise during the upcoming 72nd Senior National Volleyball Championship.
A Championship of National Stature
The prestigious national-level championship is scheduled to be held from January 4 to January 11. The action will unfold at the Sampurnanand Sports Stadium in Varanasi, bringing together top volleyball talent from across the country. Rai's appointment underscores the trust placed in his deep understanding of the sport at a crucial competitive event.
From BLW to the International Arena: Rai's Credentials
Naveen Kumar Rai is not just an administrator but a highly qualified sports professional who has consistently upgraded his skills. While serving at BLW, he has pursued advanced training on a global scale. His impressive qualifications include completing the International Coaching Course (Level 1) from the FIVB in Switzerland.
His commitment to mastering the game is further highlighted by his participation in several elite training programs. These include specialized technical seminars focusing on the Setter & Middle Player positions and a dedicated Beach Volleyball Coaching course. Adding to his multifaceted role in the sport, Rai is also an officially recognized state-level referee with the Uttar Pradesh Volleyball Association.
A Proven Track Record of Success
Rai's new role as observer is built upon a solid foundation of past achievements. His most notable success came in 2015 during the 63rd Senior National Volleyball Championship. Serving as the coach, he played an instrumental role in guiding the Indian Railways Men's Team to clinch the 1st position.
In that same landmark year, the team also secured a podium finish by achieving the 3rd position in the Federation Cup under his guidance. Since 2015, his leadership has been a constant for the BLW Volleyball Team, where he has served continuously as the coach, nurturing local talent and contributing to the sports culture at the industrial unit.
This appointment marks a new chapter for Rai, transitioning from a hands-on coaching role to a strategic observational position for the national championship. It highlights the value of dedicated sports professionals within public sector undertakings like Indian Railways and BLW, who contribute significantly to the nation's sporting ecosystem beyond their primary job roles.
