Varca Clinches Title at Chotanagpur Youth Football Tournament in Raia, Goa

Goa, May 1, 2025 — The Arnold Seva Kendra (ASK) Goa of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) Fathers, in collaboration with the Chotanagpur Youth Group, organised a 5-a-side football tournament on May 1 at the SVD Seminary grounds in Raia, Goa. The event witnessed the participation of 11 youth teams from across Goa. A distinctive feature of the tournament was its inclusive nature, as each team was required to field at least two female players during every match.

Fr. Innocent Fernandes, SVD, Rector of the SVD Seminary, Raia, inaugurated the tournament with a symbolic kick-off, marking the start of a day filled with intense competition and spirited participation.

Teams from Verna, Varca, Olaulim, Pompurpa, and other parts of Goa competed in the league stage, with the top four—Verna, Varca, Olaulim, and Pompurpa—advancing to the semifinals. In the first semifinal, Pompurpa secured a victory over Verna, while in the second semifinal, Varca edged past Olaulim, setting up a thrilling final clash.

The championship match between Varca and Pompurpa ended in a dramatic 2-2 draw during regulation time, pushing the contest into a penalty shootout. Varca held their nerve to emerge victorious in the shootout, claiming the tournament title. Also, Verna secured third place after defeating Olaulim in a closely contested third-place match.

Several players were recognised for their outstanding performances during the tournament. Melroy of Varca was named Best Goalkeeper. Sanju of Pompurpa received the Best Male Player award while Eshleen of Varca was recognised as the Best Female Player. Deepak of Verna and Venita of Verna won the Highest Male and Female Goal Scorer accolades, respectively.

The event was attended by Fr. Caetano, SVD, and Fr. Roque, SVD, who both witnessed the competition and interacted with the participants.

The tournament concluded with Fr. Michael Pereira, SVD, the chief organiser, thanking Prakash and the Verna Chotanagpur Youth for their efforts in organising the event. He also expressed gratitude to the SVD Fathers for generously providing the grounds and the SVD seminarians for their invaluable support throughout the tournament.

The Chotanagpur Youth Football Tournament was widely praised for promoting inclusivity and community spirit through sport. By mandating mixed-gender participation and encouraging fair play, the event set a strong example for future youth sports initiatives in Goa.

By Fr. Michael Pereira SVD