A four-team hockey tournament is underway in Paktia province, organized by the Afghanistan Hockey Federation’s provincial representation under the Directorate of Physical Education and Sports.
Paktia | By Taib Khatizwal
The city of Gardez is hosting the tournament featuring four local teams: Paktia Youth, Entezar, Paktia K.K.R., and Atalan. The event aims to promote hockey in the region, motivate young athletes, and identify new talents across the province.
In the opening match, Paktia K.K.R. defeated Paktia Youth with a 4–2 scoreline in a competitive and energetic encounter that attracted an enthusiastic local crowd. Organizers said the matches have been conducted with fair play and growing community interest.
Tournament coordinator Abdul Khaliq Stanikzai said, “Our goal is to strengthen hockey in Paktia and encourage more youth to take part in this beautiful sport.”
The competition began on Wednesday and will continue until next Tuesday. The Afghanistan Hockey Federation has recently expanded its provincial programs to revive and develop the sport at the grassroots level after years of limited participation and support.