VIJAYAWADA: The Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) has announced a strategic collaboration with Tata Steel Limited to provide high-performance exposure to outstanding athletes emerging from the ongoing SAAP League 2026 on Friday.
The SAAP League, a first-of-its-kind structured statewide competition platform across 31 disciplines, was launched with the State Chess Championship in Tirupati, which witnessed participation from 2,445 district-level players, with 360 advancing to the State stage.
As the League progresses through the year, top-performing athletes in football, hockey and archery in both men’s and women’s categories will be shortlisted and rewarded with structured training exposure at Tata Steel’s premier academies in Jamshedpur.
SAAP chairman Animini Ravi Naidu said “We are grateful to Tata Steel Limited for partnering with us in this meaningful initiative. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to recognising merit and strengthening structured talent pathways.”
S Bharani, VC and MD, SAAP, said the SAAP League aims to provide a year-round state-level platform for talented youth, linking competition with exposure and long-term performance pathways.
Chief Sports, Tata Steel Limited & CEO, Jamshedpur Football Club, Mukul Choudhari, said the Tata Steel is pleased to collaborate with the SAAP and the first batch of selected athletes will be announced following the respective SAAP League finals in football, hockey and archery for boys and girls.
Sports meet concludes
The Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) chairman Animini Ravi Naidu announced that the second phase of sports competitions for members of the AP Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council concluded on a grand note.
He said the three-day event became a historic milestone with the coordinated efforts of public representatives, officials, sportspersons and the media. “Ministers and MLAs setting aside their official positions to participate in competitions inspired youth and parents alike,” he added.