Naveen Kumar Goyat, fondly known as the Naveen Express, has emerged as one of India’s most exciting kabaddi talents. Born on February 14, 2000 in Sultanpur, Haryana his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) star is inspiring.
Early Life and Education
Naveen’s kabaddi journey began at the tender age of seven when his grandfather who is a former wrestler introduced him to the sport. Growing up in Bhiwani a region synonymous with sports kabaddi became a natural choice for the young athlete. His talent was evident early on as he represented his school and university in championships eventually shining in the U-17 tournaments.
Balancing sports and academics Naveen completed his education in Physical Studies at Kurukshetra University. Despite financial challenges, his family’s unwavering support and the guidance of his childhood coach fueled his determination. By 2018 he had not only secured a job with the Indian Air Force but also made his debut in professional kabaddi.
Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Career
Naveen burst onto the PKL scene in 2018 joining Dabang Delhi K.C. for INR 6.6 lakh. In his debut season he scored an impressive 177 points across 22 matches quickly making his mark as a dependable raider. Over regular seasons he continued to dominate with standout performances including 303 points in Season 7 and 258 points in Season 9.
Known for his signature move the Running Hand Touch , his agility and precision under pressure have made him a formidable opponent. With a total of 934 raid points he stands on the brink of a monumental 1,000-point milestone cementing his legacy among PKL’s elite.
Representing India on the International Stage
Naveen’s excellence isn’t limited to league matches he has also been a vital player for the Indian national kabaddi team. His performance at the 13th South-Asian Games was instrumental in India’s victory particularly during the final match against Sri Lanka, where he scored a Super 10. Similarly his contributions in the 2023 Asian Kabaddi Championships in Busan and the Asian Games in China further established him as a key player in India’s gold-medal-winning campaigns.
Personal Life and Marriage
Beyond kabaddi Naveen’s personal life has also seen significant milestones. On March 22 2023 he married Meenakshi Baliyan his childhood friend and a CRPF employee in a ceremony held in Faridabad Haryana. The couple’s story is a testament to their shared roots and enduring bond.
The Future of Naveen Kumar
Naveen Kumar’s journey is a remarkable blend of talent, determination and humility. Despite his numerous accolades his focus remains on team success rather than individual glory. As he continues to hone his skills and strive for greater heights his story serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the nation.
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