Champions of the Court and Pitch: The Marines’ Golden Run at IMU Kolkata | DMET MERI | 2026

At the Indian Maritime University (IMU), Kolkata Campus, the term "Marines" represents more than just a future career at sea—it represents a legacy of discipline, teamwork, and an unwavering will to win. This spirit was on full display recently as our Basketball and Football teams took to the field and court, securing historic finishes in two major inter-collegiate tournaments.

From tactical masterclasses on the hardwood to gritty, defensive battles on the turf, the Marines have once again proven that their training in leadership and endurance makes them a formidable force in the Kolkata sports circuit.

Basketball: A Masterclass in Dominance at Neotia

The Marines Basketball team entered the inter-college tournament at the Neotia Institute of Technology with one goal: the championship. Under the expert mentorship of Shree Sumit Kumar Sinha and the steadfast leadership of Captain Amiraj Singh Khangura, the team displayed a level of tactical sophistication that left their rivals searching for answers.

The Path to Glory

The tournament began with the group stages, where the Marines established their dominance early. They faced off against Adamas University and Haldia Institute of Technology, navigating through these opening matches with fluid passing and clinical finishing.

However, it was the knockout stage where the team truly hit their stride:

·        The Semi-Final Statement: Facing a tough Heritage Institute of Technology side, the Marines delivered a defensive lockdown. The match ended with a staggering score of 42-19.

·        The Grand Finale: In the championship match against NITMAS A, the pressure was high, but the Marines stayed cool. With superior rebounding and fast-break execution, they closed the game at 57-33, officially claiming the trophy.

Individual Honors & The Squad

The highlight of the tournament was the crowning of Cadet Vinayak Pradeep as the Tournament MVP. His ability to control the pace of the game was the engine behind the Marines' success.

The Championship Roster:

·        Final Year: Led by Cadet Amiraj Singh Khangura, alongside Cadets Om Kumar Jena, Rajeenta Bara, Sreejith Pillai, and Sujal Kanfade.

·        Third Year: Cadets Shivam Katal, Vinayak Pradeep (MVP), Karan Pratap Roy, Sree Sankar TV, and Rutuj Kamblee.

·        Second & First Year: Cadets Gaurav Dhiman, Anirudh Yadav, and Ojasv Saini.

Football: Grit and Silverware at IIEST Shibpur

While the basketball team was dominating the court, the Marines Football team was engaged in a battle of nerves at the Invitational Cup organized by IIEST Shibpur. Competing in a field of eight elite college teams from across Kolkata, the Marines proved they have the stamina and resilience of true seafarers.

Tactical Brilliance on the Pitch

Led by Cadet Adith KP and coached by the veteran Shree Ashok Banik, the football team showcased a 'total football' approach.

·        Group Stage Excellence: The Marines started strong with a clinical 3-0 victory over IEM and a hard-fought 2-0 win against IIEST A.

·        The Semi-Final Surge: In a high-intensity clash against NRS, the Marines secured their spot in the finals with a 2-0 win. Cadet Vijesh Vijay Harji was awarded Man of the Match.

·        The Final Showdown: In a nail-biting final against IIEST B, the match ended 1-0 in favor of IIEST B, leaving the Marines with a respectable Runner-Up position.

The Football Squad

·        Final Year: Cadets Adith KP (Captain), RJ Priya Tharshan, Muhammed Mushaffiq KA, Agnij Choudhary, Nayan Nattu Wagh, Vijesh Vijay Harji, Astik Anil Raikar, Amit Gautam, and Shaurya Sachin Kulwe.

·        Underclassmen: Cadets Mohammed Shihan NP, George Rishek, Ayush Anand (3rd Year); Amal Vishnu, Ashin P, Charuvasan KS (2nd Year); and Ashish Lepcha (1st Year).

A Proud Moment for IMU Kolkata

These achievements represent the hours of practice after long days of maritime training and the unbreakable bond between cadets. Congratulations to all the players, captains, and coaches for bringing home the glory!