St. Xavier's Higher Secondary School Pathaliaghat
The Don Bosco Knockout Football Tournament (Under–19) for Boys, Season 3, was held with great enthusiasm and grandeur at St. Xavier’s Higher Secondary School, Pathaliaghat. This year, the tournament saw the participation of 43 teams from across Tripura, reflecting the growing popularity and reputation of the event. The tournament was inaugurated on 3rd November 2025 by Shri. Bikash Debbarma, Honourable Minister for Tribal Welfare, Government of Tripura, in a solemn ceremony that encouraged young players to exhibit discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship. After two weeks of exciting matches, the tournament concluded on 17th November 2025 with a thrilling grand finale between Bilash FC Agartala and Holy Cross School Tuikarmaw. The final match was graced by the Chief Guest, Rev. Fr. John Zosiama SDB, Provincial of Shillong Province. The closing ceremony commenced at 1:45 pm, compered by Ms. Priyanka and Mr. Clement, who conducted the programme with poise and professionalism. Fr. Babu Stephen, Principal of St. Xavier’s Pathaliaghat, extended a warm welcome to the players, students, teachers, parents, invited guests, and the large crowd from the Pathaliaghat village community. The presence of dignitaries such as Fr. Suman Kumar Kiro, Principal of Don Bosco Herma, Fr. Lukas Murmu from Don Bosco Pitra, Fr. K.K. Joseph, Rector of St. Xavier’s Pathaliaghat, Fr. Juel Ekkam, Principal of Don Bosco Madwi, and the sisters added grace and solemnity to the occasion. The school band delivered an impressive performance, adding colour, rhythm, and energy to the celebration. Cultural dances presented by the students further lifted the spirits of the audience and set the perfect tone for the much-awaited final. Addressing the gathering, Rev. Fr. John Zosiama expressed his appreciation for the discipline and sportsman spirit displayed throughout the tournament. He thanked all the players and supporters and acknowledged the dedication of the staff and the organizing committee in ensuring the smooth conduct of Season 3. The final match kicked off at 2:15 pm amid thunderous applause from thousands who packed the Don Bosco Mini Stadium. Both teams fought valiantly, and the regular time ended in a goalless draw. Extra time of 10 minutes was awarded, during which Holy Cross School Tuikarmaw scored a brilliant tactical goal in the last 30 seconds, clinching a 1–0 victory and emerging as the Champions of the Don Bosco Knockout Football Tournament Season 3. The Champion Team received a Trophy, Medals, Citation, and a cash prize of ₹40,000, while the Runners-up, Bilash FC Agartala, were honoured with a Trophy, Medals, Citation, and a cash prize of ₹20,000. Awards for Best Player, Best Goalkeeper, Man of the Tournament, and Best Emerging Player were presented by Fr. Suman, Mr. Nandu Debbarma (Village Chairman), and Fr. Provincial. The tournament was professionally officiated by the referees, Mr. Aditya Debbarma and Mr. Biplob Sinha, from the Tripura Football Federation, supported by side referees Mr. Dinesh Debbarma and Mr. Jehova Kaipeng, ensuring fairness and discipline throughout the matches. A special mention must be made of the school volunteers, who performed exceptionally well in maintaining discipline and providing support throughout the two-week-long tournament. Towards the end of the ceremony, Ms. Moni Jamatia proposed a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging all those who contributed to the success of the tournament. Finally, Fr. John Zosiama ceremonially lowered the tournament flag and handed it over to the Principal, officially declaring the Don Bosco Knockout Football Tournament Season 3 closed. The champions celebrated their victory with excitement and firecrackers, marking a joyful conclusion. The grand finale and the entire tournament were indeed moments of pride, joy, and satisfaction for the entire St. Xavier’s School Pathaliaghat community. The unwavering support and participation of everyone involved made this event a resounding success.
