VD turns sports-preneur, co-owns Hyderabad Black Hawks

Actor Vijay Deverakonda, the young superstar who has a phenomenal fan following across the country and a recipient of several awards including a Filmfare Award, Nandi Award, and SIIMA Award, has become a co-owner of the Hyderabad Black Hawks, one of India’s top professional volleyball teams and the sole representative of the Telugu states.

Deverakonda, well known for his roles in Pelli Choopulu and Arjun Reddy, will also be the brand ambassador for the Black Hawks, with appearances and promotions aimed to take the team beyond the league matches and bring it before a global audience.

Abhishek Reddy Kankanala, the principal owner of the Black Hawks, said, “We are excited to have Vijay joining us, both as a co-owner and a brand ambassador. He brings a new perspective into the mix that can really push our brand to the next level, and advance our organization a massive step towards achieving our vision as ‘the’ team that represents the spirit and culture of Telugu people across the world. We are thrilled about what is to come.”

Meanwhile, the Arjun Reddy actor reflecting on all the discussions leading up to this monumental partnership, said, “The Black Hawks is more than just another sports team. To all of us, who proudly display our Telugu heritage, it is a representative of the Telugu people, and a symbol of our spirit and strength. I will do whatever it takes to take our team and our brand to all parts of India and beyond.”

On the subject of where the Black Hawks is going, the pair said, Our goal is our people — to elevate their lives on every level. [Prime Volleyball League] matches are only the start. It is our vision to take volleyball to all corners of the country, to all ages, all genders, all backgrounds, and all levels of athleticism. We want to empower our rural communities the same way as our cities, and level the playing field for all of our children. We want volleyball to be more than just a sport — we want to transform it into something that can help and benefit everyone.”