Gateway’s players sparkle

Gateway College showcased its rise in the domestic arena as the school’s players stole the show at the 36th Junior National Squash Championships last month.
Gateway’s students excelled in multiple categories as Chanumi Thebuwana became the girls’ U15 Champion, was placed fourth in the U-17 group and was further recognised with the prestigious title of Most Promising Player of 2025, a reflection of her promising potential. 
Sithumli Mendis impressed by securing third place in both the girls’ U15 and U17 categories, while Ranuk Mendis captured the boys’ U11 title, marking a strong start to his squash career. 
In the boys’ U15 Novices category, Chanuka Perera secured third place, demonstrating his steady growth and promise. A highlight of the tournament was the achievement by Manuth Dassanayake, who became Double Champion by winning both the boys’ U15 and U17 titles, an exceptional feat that set him apart as one of the brightest young players of the competition. Adding to the school’s proud tally, Dillon Perukanda finished fifth in boys’ U15 while Yolen Withanage secured eighth place in boys U17, contributing to Gateway’s strong overall performance across divisions.
Gateway’s achievements at this year’s Junior Nationals reflected not only the talent and dedication of its young athletes but also the training, discipline and encouragement provided by their coaches and the school community. According to Gateway, Chanumi Thebuwana’s Most Promising Player award and Manuth Dassanayake’s double triumph, were shining examples of determination and excellence.
The Junior Squash National Championship was organised by Sri Lanka Squash and held at the Air Force Squash Complex, Ratmalana. 
This year’s event had special significance as a PSA Satellite Squash Tournament and brought together nearly 450 junior athletes across 16 competitive categories, allowing the Under-17 and Under-19 participants to earn international ranking points. 
According to a squash official, the tournament was an important milestone in strengthening Sri Lanka’s position on the global junior squash stage.