In times when consistent sporting success demands sacrifice, discipline and vision, Saloni has emerged as one of state’s most influential basketball coaches, shaping the future of the sport while transforming lives of countless young players.A former national player, she is now a coach with the Punjab Sports Department. Her journey from basketball courts in Rupnagar, also known as Ropar, to the international arena is a story of perseverance, passion and devotion for the game.Currently, Saloni is associated with India junior team’s preparations at Chennai for the upcoming FIBA U-18 Asia Cup SABA Qualifiers, to be held in Sri Lanka from May 25 to 29. The tournament acts as the qualifying stage for the FIBA Asia Cup, scheduled for July in Thailand.Born and brought up in Ropar, Saloni completed Class XII in 2003 before moving to Jalandhar for higher studies. She graduated in 2006 from Hans Raj Mahila Maha Vidyalaya, affiliated to Guru Nanak Dev University. Her passion for sports encouraged her to pursue professional training in physical education and coaching. She completed her bachelors degree in physical education from Punjabi University, Patiala, in 2008 and got a sports diploma from the prestigious Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports, Patiala, in 2010-11.After getting married in 2007, Saloni continued her sporting journey with determination, balancing family responsibilities with academics, training and competitive basketball — something that earned admiration from peers as well as officials.As a player, Saloni had an impressive career at the national level. She represented Punjab in the Junior National Basketball Championship in 2004 and played a pivotal role in state’s campaign that ended with a silver medal. Her performances soon established her as a dependable and hardworking player.In 2005, she represented Tamil Nadu in the Senior National Basketball Championship, where the team also got the silver medal. However, the defining moment of her career came in 2006, when she represented Punjab in a title-winning campaign during the Senior National Championship.Apart from her national appearances, Saloni represented her university in the All India Inter-University Basketball Championship on three occasions and was a regular participant in senior national championships for years. She further showcased her talent in the national games at Guwahati in 2006.Though her achievements as a player were noteworthy, she left a lasting impact on the state’s basketball as a coach.In 2016, she joined the Punjab Sports Department as a coach at Ludhiana. She has since become a key figure behind a remarkable rise of the Ludhiana Basketball Academy, turning it into a breeding ground for talented players capable of competing at national and international levels.Under her guidance, numerous players have excelled in major championships and represented India at international events. Many of her trainees have secured government jobs on the basis of their outstanding sporting achievements — a testament to discipline, skill and confidence instilled in them through her coaching.Known for her strict training methods, technical understanding of the game and player-centric approach, Saloni has earned immense respect among players, parents and officials alike.Saloni’s growing stature as a coach also got her national recognition. In 2022, she accompanied the Indian Under-16 team to the prestigious FIBA U16 Asia Cup 2022 in Jordan. Last year, she served as an official with the India under-16 squad during the FIBA U16 Asia Cup SABA Qualifiers in Maldives.Teja Singh Dhaliwal, general secretary, Punjab Basketball Association, praised Saloni for her relentless efforts in nurturing young talent.“Her hard work and dedication have helped players bring laurels to Punjab, their families and the academy. She has played a major role in raising the standard of basketball in the region,” he added.District sports officer Kuldeep Chugh also lauded Saloni’s sincerity, discipline and commitment towards preparing players of national and international calibre.“She is extremely hardworking and committed towards her players. Punjab needs more coaches like her, who dedicate themselves completely to the development of sport,” added Chugh.“Her inclusion in the national camp underlines the trust reposed in her expertise, and her growing stature in Indian basketball coaching circles,” said Chugh, congratulating Saloni and wishing her good luck.Expressing gratitude, Saloni hailed the Punjab Basketball Association and its officials for creating a positive and sports-friendly environment.“The support and freedom provided by the association and department officials have helped me conduct training programmes effectively and focus on player development,” she said.Today, Saloni isn’t just a coach, but a mentor, motivator and role model for aspiring athletes across the state.At a time when the state is searching for sporting heroes beyond conventional disciplines, Saloni’s contribution to basketball is steadily becoming a story of pride, perseverance and lasting legacy.