Mayor Bhaskar inaugurates 22nd Independence Day Football Tournament
Mangaluru: The Dakshina Kannada District Football Association (DKDFA), affiliated to Karnataka State Football Association organized the 22nd Independence Day Football Tournament” from 24 July to 15 August here at the Nehru Maidan Football grounds.
The programme began with an invocation. The programme was inaugurated by the Mayor of MCC Bhaskar K by lighting the traditional lamp along with other dignitaries on the dais. The website of the association was launched by the Chairman of Sri Devi Institutions Sadanand Shetty.
Addressing the gathering Sadanand Shetty said, “From the past 22 years, Dakshina Kannada District Football Association under the able leadership of Aslam has been organizing Football tournaments which is very popular. By organizing such tournaments we can encourage students to be involved in sports. Organizing the football tournament every year is not an easy task, you need a lot of dedication and effort. But Aslam has succeeded in organizing this tournament for the 22nd year. I wish him and the association all the success.”
Mayor Bhaskar speaking on the occasion said, “Students have come here to take part in the Independence day Football Tournament. Along with education, students are showing a special interest in sports. Sports will keep us healthy and fit. It will help those who take part in the Independence cup to play in the district, state and national level. I wish all the participants the very best. Play with a sportive spirit and be victorious.”
Speaking to mangalorean.com the Chairman of DKDFA D M Aslam said, “From the past 22 years we are organizing the Independence Cup Football Tournament. 210 teams from the Primary to College-level have registered for the tournament. From today, the tournament will go on for 25 days. The Primary, Highschool and college students are here to exhibit their talents.
Aslam further said, “We want to develop the ground because it is very difficult to play on this ground without turf. We have already demanded the government to have a turf ground. Because of some technical reasons the file is pending in Bengaluru since the last one year. We want to send our players to the state and national level. Already 10 girls got the opportunity to play in state-level and 4 of our boys have played in the national -level. “
The Independence Cup Football Tournament was declared opened by Sadanand Shetty and Bhaskar K by releasing the balloons in the air. Corporators Premanand Shetty, Diwakar, Abdul Lateef, Navildas Bengre and others were also present.
Hussain Bolar compere the programme.