NEWS
Holy Cross School Tuikarmaw Lifts Don Bosco U-19 Football Title in Thrilling Finale
The Don Bosco Knockout Football Tournament (Under–19) for Boys, Season 3, concluded on a high note at St. Xavier's Higher Secondary School, Pathaliaghat, after two weeks of spirited competition that drew an impressive 43 teams from across Tripura. The growing scale of participation underscored the tournament's rising popularity among young footballers in the state.
The season kicked off on 3 November with an inaugural ceremony led by Shri Bikash Debbarma, Honourable Minister for Tribal Welfare, Government of Tripura. Encouraging the youth to uphold discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship, the Minister lauded the Don Bosco institutions for nurturing grassroots football talent.
The grand finale on 17 November brought thousands of spectators to the Don Bosco Mini Stadium, where Bilash FC Agartala and Holy Cross School Tuikarmaw battled for the coveted title. The occasion was honoured by Chief Guest Fr. John Zosiama SDB, Provincial of the Shillong Province, who praised the high standard of play and the exemplary discipline shown by the teams. He also extended gratitude to the organizing committee and supporting staff for ensuring the seamless execution of Season 3.
Fr. Babu Stephen, Principal of St. Xavier's Pathaliaghat, welcomed the massive gathering of players, teachers, parents, and the vibrant local community. The school band enlivened the atmosphere with a dynamic performance, while students' cultural dances added colour and enthusiasm ahead of the championship match.
The final unfolded as a nail-biting contest. After a goalless draw in regular time, the match moved into an intense 10-minute extra period. In the dramatic final 30 seconds, Holy Cross School Tuikarmaw executed a brilliant tactical play to net the winning goal, sealing a 1–0 victory and the championship title.
The champions received a Trophy, Medals, a Citation, and a cash prize of ₹40,000. Runners-up Bilash FC Agartala were awarded a Trophy, Medals, a Citation, and ₹20,000. Individual honours—including Best Player, Best Goalkeeper, Man of the Tournament, and Best Emerging Player—were presented by Fr. Suman, Village Chairman Mr. Nandu Debbarma, and Fr. Provincial.
Referees Aditya Debbarma and Biplob Sinha of the Tripura Football Federation, supported by side referees Dinesh Debbarma and Jehova Kaipeng, ensured fairness and professionalism throughout the tournament.
The presence of dignitaries, including Fr. Suman Kumar Kiro, Fr. Lukas Murmu, Fr. K.K. Joseph, Fr. Juel Ekkam, and the sisters, added grace and significance to the memorable sporting occasion.















