Panjim, Aug. 16 -- Black Hawks U21 (Hyderabad) were crowned champions of the inaugural Guardians Trophy 2026 after defeating hosts Goa Guardians U21 3-1 in the final at the Don Bosco Oratory, Panjim, on Sunday.

The victory brought the curtain down on three days of U21 volleyball in Goa, with the youth squads of all 10 Prime Volleyball League franchises competing on one platform for the inaugural Guardians Trophy title, according to a press release.

After 20 group-stage matches and two semifinals, Goa Guardians U21 and Black Hawks U21 (Hyderabad) emerged as the final two, setting up a fitting conclusion to the tournament.

Hosts Goa Guardians U21 had to dig deep in their semifinal, overcoming Mumbai Meteors Youth 3-2 in a five-set battle...