By Cl. Alan Manuel for BISMumbai

Don Bosco High School, Kawant, had been selected to represent the Chhotaudepur district in the state-level Girls Under-14 football championship for Khel Mahakumb held on 27 April 2024. The school's football team earned this honour by winning the district-level tournament in a series of impressive performances.

The coach of the Don Bosco team, Mr Govind Rathwa and Mr Ajay Rathwa, expressed their pride in the players' achievements. In an interview before the tournament, they said, "These girls have worked incredibly hard to reach this level. They've shown commitment, discipline, and teamwork, which are the hallmarks of great athletes. We're excited to represent Chhotaudepur at the state level, and we'll give it our best shot."

The team's captain, Jaya Rathwa, shared her excitement about the championship before the games. "It's an honour to represent our school and our district. We are going to train even harder to make sure we're ready for the state competition. This is a dream come true for us," she said.

Don Bosco High School Kawant's success has been a source of pride for the entire school community. The Principal, Fr Rixson Nigrel, remarked, "Our students have always excelled in academics, but it's wonderful to see them succeed in sports as well. This achievement is a testament to their dedication and the support they receive from their families and the school."

The state-level Under-14 football championship took place in Dahod, bringing together the best teams from across Gujarat. Eight zonal-level teams participated in the tournament. Chhotaudepur district played their first match against Mahisagar and won the match 2-0. In the semifinals, played between Kheda and Chhotaudepur, Kheda won 3-0 thus knocking Chhotaudepur out of the tournament.

The Rector, Fr Mayank Parmar, encouraged the girls and appreciated them as they participated in the tournament. He added, "In our school, we live by the spirit of Don Bosco, which is centered around teamwork, and a commitment to growth. Don Bosco believed that every experience, whether a success or a setback, is an opportunity to learn and to become better. They have demonstrated this spirit through their hard work and their dedication, on and off the field." He also congratulated the Principal and the coaches who accompanied and trained them.