15-Year-Old Pune Archer Vaidehi Jadhav Selected to Represent India at Asia Cup in Iraq
Pune, 28th February 2026: In a remarkable display of talent and dedication, 15-year-old Vaidehi Jadhav, a Class 10 student at Army Public School (APS) Khadki, has been selected to represent India at the upcoming Asia Cup (WRT) Stage 2 archery tournament in Iraq. Showcasing exceptional skill, Vaidehi will compete in the Junior (Under-21) category despite her young age.
The Archery Association of India announced the selection on February 27, 2026, following rigorous junior selection trials held at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) in Sonipat, Haryana. Competing in the Compound Women’s Individual event, Vaidehi secured the 2nd rank overall. She accumulated 12.75 points during the trials, showing stellar composure by scoring a 145 in a high-pressure shoot-off match.
Vaidehi’s rapid ascent in the sport is a testament to her unwavering focus. She has been training relentlessly for the past three years at the Swarajya Academy in Sanghvi, Pimpri Chinchwad, under the expert guidance of international coach Kunal Taware.
The Chairman Brig P.S.Jyoti ,SM,VSM Army Public School Khadki has expressed immense pride in her accomplishment. He stated that “It is with immense pride and joy that I congratulate Vaidehi for her remarkable selection. Representing the country on such a distinguished international platform is both a privilege and a responsibility. We are confident that she will compete with integrity, courage, and sportsmanship, embodying the true spirit of archery and inspiring many young aspirants.”
Her father, Army Subedar (Honorary Lieutenant) Jadhav Hirachandra Dadasaheb Jadhav, who has been a relentless pillar of support, expressed deep gratitude for the community backing his daughter.
“Today is a day of immense happiness and pride for us. Vaidehi’s selection is not just her personal achievement, but the result of collective support from her international coach, principal, teachers, school administration, academy parents, and even our regular rickshaw driver,” he shared.
Praising her discipline, her father added, “Since she joined archery, she has shown sheer determination. She gives 100% to every practice session and values every minute. Her greatest strengths are her calm demeanor and incredible focus during competitions. We are confident she will bring glory to the country in the future.”
With her sights set on the Asia Cup in Iraq, Vaidehi Jadhav is already proving to be an inspiring figure for young student-athletes across the nation.
