Some traits are unavoidable in both the startup and sports industries: the capacity to think things through, learn from mistakes, and keep going in spite of obstacles. Whether you want to win on the court or start the next great company, these qualities are essential. Success and failure are often determined by characteristics like resilience, perseverance, and collaboration. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that many well-known sportsmen boldly enter the world of entrepreneurship after retiring.
The renowned badminton teacher and former international player Pullela Gopichand eloquently illustrates this link. “Whether it’s on the court or in the boardroom, success demands discipline, adaptability, and relentless focus,” he says in an interview with Hyderabad Media House. You must trust your team, be mentally alert, and be present every day.
Building on this idea, Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy and Endiya Partners, an early-stage venture capital company, have partnered to introduce Game On!, a unique sports competition designed specifically for India’s startup scene. Game On!, which aims to promote resilience, leadership, and well-being, reflects a greater awareness that the mental and physical demands of athletics are similar to those of business.
“In the early stages of a startup, consistency is more important than anything else,” says Sateesh Andra, managing director of Endiya Partners and a former competitive table tennis player. The ‘training attitude’ of elite athletes is comparable to this. The competition, which will make its debut on June 6 and 7 at Bengaluru’s Lakshyan Academy of Sports, will include box cricket, table tennis, and badminton—sports selected for their accessibility, quickness, and collaborative aspects.
“Our selection of sports reflects the perseverance, teamwork, and fast thinking that characterize startups. Andra continues, “Success is rarely a solo achievement.”
Endiya intends to expand the tournament series to Mumbai and Delhi after the Bengaluru debut, with the possibility of expanding to Hyderabad and Chennai later this year. Because participating startups will pay a nominal cost, the project is accessible and inclusive.
There is seldom any rest in the fast-paced, high-pressure life of a founder. Heartbreaking losses have occurred in the startup environment in recent years, often as a result of stress-exacerbated health issues.
“While we may not fully understand the reasons—whether it’s genetics, stress, or lifestyle—the fact remains: founders need space to recharge,” Andra adds.
Endiya supports this view by acknowledging that genuine entrepreneurial success requires balance and goes beyond money. The company has invested in firms such as Cult Fit, Darwinbox, eKincare, and Sugar Fit. “We look at founder well-being as a critical, long-term investment,” Andra says.
According to Andra, “training your heart and mind is just as important as getting a product ready for launch.” “Like sports, companies have their share of wins and losses. How you present yourself each and every day is what counts.
Game On! aims to create a culture in which taking a pause to refuel is seen as a strength rather than a weakness. It is not only about competitiveness. Through peer bonding and sports, it aims to further incorporate such practices into daily startup life.
According to Andra, athletic activities provide important insights on entrepreneurs that are sometimes obscured during formal meetings, such as how founders encourage colleagues, communicate under pressure, and deal with failures.
“Daily, purposeful practice builds strong teams and stronger leaders,” concurs Gopichand. Whether in companies or sports, successful cultures are characterized by honesty, trust, and hard work.
Gopichand has used meditation as a coping mechanism. “It keeps me grounded, clears my mind, and helps me refocus,” he says.
Gopichand is moved by the dynamism of today’s youthful Indian entrepreneurs but cautions them against undervaluing the need to take time to think. “Recovery in sports is inextricably linked to performance. It’s equally important when creating anything significant. Entrepreneurs have a unique opportunity to reestablish connections with themselves and their colleagues outside of their company positions via initiatives such as Game On!
Gopichand’s last statement, “Small moments of reflection and connection help build bigger victories in life,” is a lovely summary.
