The Under-17 Sikkim Football League 3.0, organised by the Indian Army’s Black Cat Division under Operation Sadbhawna, commenced today and will continue till February 19. The tournament aims to promote grassroots football, encourage young talent, and strengthen youth engagement through sports across Sikkim.
A total of 14 teams from various schools across the state are participating in the league, including 8 boys’ teams and 6 girls’ teams, reflecting a strong emphasis on inclusivity and equal opportunities in sports development.
This marks the third edition of the tournament, being conducted under the leadership of Brigadier Suraj Bahan, Commander, 17 Mountain Artillery Brigade, who has been instrumental in supporting youth-centric sporting initiatives in the region.
Opening Match
The opening match of the tournament was played at Paljor Stadium, Gangtok, between Yangang United Football Club and Mangan District Football Academy, drawing enthusiastic participation from players, officials, and spectators.
The inaugural event was graced by Dr. Ram Biswakarma, Director, Sports & Youth Affairs Department, Government of Sikkim, who appreciated the Indian Army’s efforts in nurturing young footballers and promoting discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship among students.
Organisation & Officials
The tournament is being organised in association with the Sikkim Football Association, ensuring adherence to professional standards and fair play. Mr. Chanchuk Lama has been appointed as the Chief Referee for the league.
Prizes & Awards
Attractive prizes have been announced to motivate participants:
- First Prize: Sports merchandise worth ₹50,000
- Second Prize: Sports merchandise worth ₹30,000
- Third Prize: Sports merchandise worth ₹20,000
- Best Player of the Tournament: Sports merchandise worth ₹10,000
- Best Goalkeeper: Sports merchandise worth ₹10,000
Conclusion
The Under-17 Sikkim Football League 3.0 under Operation Sadbhawna is expected to serve as a vital platform for identifying and nurturing young football talent while fostering unity, discipline, and healthy competition among the youth of Sikkim.
Match No. 1 – Girls Category
Pakyong United FC (1) vs Mangan DFA (0)
Pakyong United FC secured a narrow victory over Mangan DFA in a closely contested encounter.
- Goal Scorer: Jersey No. 11 (Pakyong United FC)
- Player of the Match: Jersey No. 21, Goalkeeper Dorip Lepcha (Mangan DFA)
- Winner: Pakyong United FC
Match No. 2 – Boys Category
Young Boys, Gyalshing (2) vs Sanju FA (1)
Young Boys, Gyalshing registered a hard-fought win against Sanju FA.
- Goal Scorers (Young Boys): Jersey No. 8 and Jersey No. 15
- Goal Scorer (Sanju FA): Jersey No. 9
- Red Card: Jersey No. 3 (Sanju FA)
- Player of the Match: Jersey No. 8, Ritesh Chettri (Young Boys)
- Winner: Young Boys, Gyalshing
Match No. 3 – Boys Category
Mangan DFA (0) vs Siniolchu FA (2)
Siniolchu FA dominated the match to secure a convincing victory over Mangan DFA.
- Goal Scorers: Jersey No. 5 and Jersey No. 7 (Siniolchu FA)
- Yellow Card: Jersey No. 5 (Siniolchu FA)
- Player of the Match: Jersey No. 7 (Siniolchu FA)
- Winner: Siniolchu FA
