KANNUR: Against all odds, Anamika Aneesh, a determined volleyball player from Chokli, has earned a spot on the Indian squad for the World University Volleyball Championship in Germany—turning a financial struggle into a moment of glory for her hometown.

Set to leave for the national training camp in Bhubaneswar on June 16, Anamika’s journey is powered by the unwavering support of generous locals, sports lovers, and her college, who rallied together to help her overcome the steep ₹2.5 lakh required for participation.

Anamika’s talent was first noticed in 2016 when the Chokli panchayat appointed coach K Sivadasan under the District Sports Council. “I started training in Class 6 and shifted to a hostel in Class 7 to practice more. Wearing the Indian jersey was always my dream,” she shared.

A student of Assumption College, Changanassery, Anamika previously studied at Thalassery Girls School and trained under the Sports Authority of India (SAI). She’s now under the guidance of coach Nawaz Bahab and represents MG University. Her achievements include podium finishes at the Junior National, South Zone, and All India Inter-University Championships.

The moment of selection came after a national camp in May. “There were so many talented players—I never expected to be picked,” Anamika recalled. But the joy was short-lived when she learned of the financial burden. With her father, an auto driver, being the sole earner, help from her community became her lifeline.

As one of 12 players chosen from Indian universities, Anamika is now set to take her dreams global, carrying not just her own aspirations, but the pride of her village.