In 2019, Zahira College Matale achieved another milestone in its proud sporting history when the Under-20 Hockey Team emerged as Joint National Champions at the Sri Lanka Schools Under-20 Hockey Championship. The tournament brought together the strongest school-level hockey teams in the country, reflecting a high level of competition, strategy and athletic skill.
Zahira demonstrated exceptional performance throughout the tournament, progressing through the group stages and knockout rounds with disciplined play, well-organized defense and strong midfield coordination. The final match concluded in a draw, resulting in the championship title being shared with St. Peter’s College, Colombo, one of the leading Colombo schools with a long-established hockey program.
The achievement reaffirmed Zahira College Matale’s status as a dominant force in Sri Lankan school hockey, continuing a legacy that spans several decades. The coaching staff, past players and Old Boys expressed pride in the team’s success, highlighting the College’s strong sporting culture and commitment to nurturing young athletes.
Following the victory, several players from the Under-20 squad were identified as potential prospects for provincial and national-level selection, reinforcing the value of structured training programs at Zahira College Matale. This accomplishment further strengthened the school’s reputation and inspired younger students participating in junior hockey categories to aim for similar national recognition.