FINAL OF DON BOSCO FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT
The 2nd Don Bosco Football Tournament for Under-19 Boys, organized by St. Xavier's Higher Secondary Pathaliaghat, concluded on a high note on 8th November 2024. The two-week-long event gathered young football enthusiasts from across Tripura, drawing 57 teams to compete in a prestigious knockout tournament at the Don Bosco Mini Stadium in Pathaliaghat. This year’s event not only celebrated athletic skill but also underscored the institution's commitment to youth empowerment and sportsmanship.
The tournament kicked off on 20th October with a brief but heartfelt inaugural ceremony led by Chief Guest Fr. K.K. Joseph, SDB. Organized under the banner of St. Xavier's, a renowned Don Bosco institution, the event embodied the Salesian principles of dedication and community service. Schools from across Tripura sent their best under-19 players to compete in a series of closely contested matches, all conducted with professionalism by St. Xavier’s teachers and referees from the Tripura Football Association, who ensured fair play and sportsmanship at every stage.
The grand final, held on 8th November, featured an intense matchup between Don Bosco School Naba Sardar and Kalam Kai. In a nail-biting 2-1 game, Kalam Kai clinched the championship title, while Don Bosco School Naba Sardar finished as the deserving runners-up. The champions were awarded a cash prize of Rs. 35,000, along with the prestigious Champion’s Trophy and individual medals, while the runners-up took home Rs. 20,000 with a citation and medals. Individual prizes were also awarded for Best Player, Best Goalkeeper, and Highest Scorer, recognizing exceptional talent and skill displayed throughout the tournament.
The event was elevated by colorful performances from St. Xavier's students, including vibrant dances and a powerful showcase by the school band, which added to the festive spirit. The referees, whose fair officiating was integral to the tournament’s success, were honored by Fr. Babu Stephen SDB, who presented them with mementos as tokens of appreciation.
The final match saw the presence of distinguished guests who contributed to the grandeur of the event. Fr. Babu Stephen, the Principal of St. Xavier's, warmly welcomed attendees and expressed gratitude for their continuous support. A large gathering of Salesians and Salesian family members from nearby communities further enriched the occasion. Mr. Purna Chandra Jamatia, Chief Executive Member of TTAADC, graced the event as the Chief Guest, with Mr. Udai Shankar, MDC of Khumwlung, as the Guest of Honour. Their support emphasized the vital role sports play in fostering unity, discipline, and youth development across the region.
The successful conclusion of the 2nd Don Bosco Football Tournament stands as a testament to the commitment of St. Xavier's Higher Secondary Pathaliaghat, as well as the support from the Tripura Football Association and the broader community. Through meticulous planning, dedication, and the enthusiastic participation of youth from across the state, the tournament celebrated athleticism while instilling the values of teamwork, resilience, and respect—core principles of Don Bosco institutions. This successful event has set a new benchmark for future tournaments and has fostered a renewed sense of community, sportsmanship, and unity among the youth of Tripura.
Fr. Babu Stephen SDB