“No Matter the Challenge, Never Give Up”: Udhayanidhi Stalin’s Inspiring Message to Tamil Nadu’s Budding Athletes

Tamil Nadu Minister for Youth Welfare and Sports Development, Mr. Udhayanidhi Stalin, delivered an inspiring speech at a felicitation ceremony held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai on July 22, 2025. The event honoured school students from government, aided, and private institutions who excelled in zonal, national, and international sports competitions during the 2024–2025 academic year.

Addressing the young athletes, Udhayanidhi Stalin said, “No matter what obstacles you face, never give up on your hard work and perseverance. You are not alone in your journey. The Hon’ble Chief Minister, the Dravidian Model Government, and the Sports Department are firmly standing with you.” He expressed immense joy in meeting the medal-winning students and congratulated them for bringing laurels to their schools and to the state.

He praised the Department of School Education for its continued commitment to promoting sports and physical fitness in schools. Highlighting the broader value of sports beyond academics, the Minister said that sports teach essential life skills such as teamwork, cooperation, confidence, friendship, planning, execution, and strategy—skills that are vital to succeed in life.

He urged students to devote dedicated time to daily physical training, stating that success doesn’t come by talent alone but through consistent effort and discipline. “Whether you are training locally or competing internationally, our government will continue to support you—financially and morally—through initiatives like the Tamil Nadu Champions Portal,” he said.

Recalling the powerful story of British sprinter Derek Redmond from the 1992 Olympics, the Minister emphasized the value of perseverance. Redmond, who tore his hamstring during the 400m race, finished the race with the help of his father, despite being unable to win. “Though he did not win a medal, his determination earned a standing ovation from thousands. His never-give-up attitude is a greater inspiration than any medal,” said the Minister.

He also assured students that the Tamil Nadu Champions Portal (tnchampions.sdat.in) would continue to provide funding and equipment support. He encouraged students to register and take full advantage of this facility. The government has also launched the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’s Trophy, which offers ₹36 crore in prizes and kits to promote wider participation.

Ending his address, Udhayanidhi Stalin made a direct appeal to schoolteachers: “Please do not compromise the Physical Training (PT) period for academic lessons. Sports time belongs to the students. Let them train, let them grow. Support them wholeheartedly.”

He thanked the Minister for School Education, attending teachers, and government officials for their contribution to sports development in schools. Finally, he extended his warmest congratulations to the medal-winning students and appreciation to their coaches and trainers.

Issued by:
Directorate of Information and Public Relations, Chennai-9