A.M.M. Saad Becomes First Isipathana College Player to Represent Sri Lanka at U15 International Hockey Tournament

A.M.M. Saad, a talented young hockey player from Isipathana College, Colombo, has made history by becoming the first student from the school to represent Sri Lanka at an Under-15 international hockey tournament.

Saad’s journey began in 2017, at just seven years old, when he took part in an Inter-House Hockey tournament. Recognising his natural talent, coach Praveen Chanaka encouraged him to pursue the sport more seriously, nurturing him into a promising young hockey star.

By 2022, Saad had already established himself as a key player, earning the role of vice-captain of the Isipathana College Under-14 Hockey team. Under his and the team’s guidance, Isipathana clinched the Gold Star Award at the All-Island Schools Under-14 Championship, organised by the Sri Lanka Schools Hockey Association in association with the Ministry of Education, in both 2022 and 2023.

In 2024, he progressed to the Under-16 team as vice-captain, impressing spectators and coaches alike during the All-Island Schools Under-16 tournament. His consistent performances earned him a place in the Sri Lanka Schools Under-15 Hockey team for the 47th Pesta USM Hockey Championship held in Penang, Malaysia in December. Saad was the youngest player on the tour, a testament to his skill, maturity, and determination.

This historic achievement has brought pride and honour to Isipathana College and highlights the school’s growing reputation as a hub for nurturing hockey talent.

Saad expressed his heartfelt gratitude, saying, “I am deeply thankful to our Principal Darshana Udawattege, teacher-in-charge Nayana Padmakumari, my former coach Praveen Chanaka for guiding me to this standard, my current coaches Vishwa Udayanga and Kasun Rajitha, the Old Boys’ Association, and all well-wishers for their generous support throughout my journey.”

With Saad’s breakthrough, Isipathana College continues to inspire young athletes to dream big and achieve excellence on the international stage.