by Cl Jittin Mathew for BIS Mumbai

In honor of Children’s Day, the Don Bosco Youth Centre (DBYC), Pune, brought together children and youth for a weekend of camaraderie, fun, and sportsmanship through the much-awaited ‘Don Bosco Cup Season 2’. Held on November 16 and 17 2024, the football tournament was a vibrant celebration of youthful energy and talent, fostering friendships and showcasing the exceptional skills of the young participants and organisers.  

Organised by the Senior boys of the Oratory at DBYC, the event attracted enthusiastic participation from across the Pune region. With three age categories: Under 13, Under 15, and Under 17, the tournament was structured to ensure fair competition and maximum engagement. The Under 13 and Under 15 Categories were conducted on the first day, the younger teams competed in a league-based system, displaying passion and raw talent.  Whereas the Under 17 Category was held on the second day, this segment saw the senior boys battle it out in a high-stakes knockout format.  

The tournament witnessed spirited performances, with the following teams emerging as champions:  Under 13 Champions: Team 4 Lions, Under 15 Champions: Team Scorpions and for Under 17 Champions: Team 4 Lions. The event was marked by an electric atmosphere, filled with cheers, camaraderie, and the hallmark spirit of sportsmanship that Don Bosco institutions are celebrated for.  

Amidst the excitement, the spirit of Don Bosco was palpable. His timeless words, “Run, jump, shout, but do not sin,” echoed through the fields as the young athletes showcased their talents with passion and integrity. This quote embodied the balance of joyful play and moral uprightness that Don Bosco advocated, inspiring both participants and spectators.  Mr Ashish Hatekar, one of the chief organisers, shared his heartfelt gratitude: “Without the support of the Fathers and Brothers, this event would not have been possible. Their guidance taught us to serve others and uplift one another, which reflects the spirit of Don Bosco.”

Participants echoed similar sentiments. Mr Raghav Rai, a participant, expressed, “Hats off to the organisers! The tournament was well-planned, and we thoroughly enjoyed playing. Thank you, Don Bosco, for this wonderful opportunity.”

The ‘Don Bosco Cup Season 2’ proved to be more than just a sports tournament, it was a celebration of unity, teamwork, and the joyful spirit of Children’s Day. The success of the event stands as a testament to the dedication of the Oratory boys and the supportive Salesian community, leaving a lasting impact on all who participated and attended.