The Isipathana College Under-16 hockey team, led by captain Mandiv Ranasinghe, emerged victorious at the Old Palians Hockey League, organized by Dharmapala College, Pannipitiya, and played at the Dharmapala grounds last week.
The Greens showcased skill, determination, and teamwork throughout the tournament. In their opening match, Isipathana drew 1-1 with Prince of Wales College, Moratuwa, with Senuka Akein scoring the goal and Aziz Azyan earning the Best Player accolade.
In their second match, Isipathana edged out Dharmapala College 1-0, thanks to a decisive strike from captain Mandiv Ranasinghe, while Naqib Zafarullah was named Best Player. They continued their winning form by defeating St. Aloysius College, Galle 2-1, with goals from Mandiv Ranasinghe and Hirun Giriwana, and Methupa Lohiru earning Best Player recognition. In their final league match, Isipathana held Joseph Vaz College to a 0-0 draw.
For his exceptional leadership and all-round performance, Mandiv Ranasinghe was named Player of the Series, guiding his team to the championship.
The Isipathana Under-16 squad included: Mandiv Ranasinghe (Captain), Aziz Azyan, A.M.M. Saad, L.P. Wanigasinghe, H.R.M. Giriwana, Inthikaab Girsy, Ashen Perera, Methupa Lohiru, Shahan Ansari, Naqib Zafarullah, Kevin Jayawardena, Nisala Dewsara, Senuka Akein, Omika Sanjul, Chenuth Thawasara, Rashen Pansilu, Dinuru Yunal, Devinja Nirekshana, Thinuga Bometh, Nilsara Dissanayake, Abdul Azyan, Helith Piyadasa, M. Umar, and Zaid Malik.
The tournament victory further cements Isipathana College’s reputation as a powerhouse in school hockey, nurturing talented young players who excel on the field.