By Mrs Dorothy Fernandes for BIS Mumbai

The Under-17 Girls Football Team of Don Bosco High School & Junior College, Naigaon, brought pride and glory to the institution with their remarkable performance at the District Sports Office (DSO) Inter-School Football Tournament held in Virar on 8th September 2025. Competing against nearly 32 schools from Naigaon to Virar, the young athletes stood out for their discipline, teamwork, and fighting spirit, eventually securing an impressive 3rd place finish in the highly competitive tournament.

The tournament began with great enthusiasm, and the girls of Don Bosco made a commanding start in their opening match against Rahul International School, registering a convincing 3–0 victory. This outstanding win not only boosted the team’s confidence but also earned them a direct entry into the semifinals.

In the semifinal clash with Yash Vidya Niketan School, both teams displayed exceptional defensive and offensive skills. The match remained goalless until the final whistle, pushing the contest into a nail-biting penalty shootout. Despite their best efforts and remarkable saves, Don Bosco narrowly missed advancing to the finals, falling short with a 2–1 scoreline in penalties. However, the setback only strengthened the team’s resolve. In the third-place playoff, Don Bosco girls showcased true resilience and determination as they faced Notre Dame School. With a brilliant display of coordination and strategy, they managed to edge past their opponents with a slender yet decisive 1–0 victory, securing the bronze medal and a place on the winners’ podium.

This achievement reflects not only the hard work of the players but also the constant encouragement and guidance provided by the Vice Principal and Sports Director, Fr Joaquim Fernandes, whose regular follow-ups and motivational support played an instrumental role in the team’s success. The dedicated efforts of Coach Emmanuel Olukunle Ilo also deserve special mention. Praising the team, he remarked that the girls had demonstrated outstanding determination and energy, with every match serving as a testament to their courage, teamwork, and resilience. He further emphasized that their bronze medal was well-earned and that he was extremely proud of their journey.

The tournament was an enriching experience for the girls, instilling in them values of sportsmanship, perseverance, and unity. Their achievement has not only added a feather to the school’s cap but also set an inspiring example for their peers to follow.