DON BOSCO SCHOOLS INDIA
MHOC Youth Hosts Annual Open Football Tournament
Excitement peaked as the Youth of Mary Help of Christians, Naigaon, Mumbai, hosted its Annual Football Extravaganza. Held at Don Bosco High School and Junior College Turf on June 30, the event was a spectacle of athleticism, strategy, and community spirit. The football team Vmaads outplayed Savage Stallions to clinch a 2-1 victory. Sixteen teams representing various neighbourhoods, schools, and local clubs came together to compete for the coveted championship title.
The tournament commenced with an energetic opening ceremony and a prayer at 10:30 am led by Fr. Joaquim Fernandes. In a symbolic gesture, he skilfully kicked the ball towards the goal, marking the official start of the annual football tournament. The atmosphere in and around the stadium was nothing short of electric. Food stalls along the pathways offered a delicious array of local delicacies to keep spectators energized throughout the matches.
The tournament began with thrilling encounters as teams battled it out in knockout rounds and quarterfinal stages. Each match was a test of skill and strategy, with coaches meticulously planning their tactics and players pushing their limits on the field. From nail-biting penalty shootouts to stunning last-minute goals, the games delivered unforgettable moments that kept the spectators on the edge of their seats. The referees, Mr. John Pereira and Mr. Dennis Fernandes, conducted the tournament fairly and tactfully.
"It's incredible to see the passion and dedication of these young athletes," said Fr. Joaquim, Vice Principal of Don Bosco High School and Junior College. "The tournament brings the whole community together and inspires the next generation of players."
Fr. Roy Noronha, the chief guest for the evening, presented the trophies along with Fr. Dominic Martis, Parish Priest, and Fr. Joaquim Fernandes, to the winners and the runners-up. Individual trophies were awarded to the Best Player – Coen Saldanha from Savage Stallions, Best Goalkeeper – Shubham Yadav from Vmaads, and the Top Scorer – Rishi from Vmaads for their exceptional dedication and performance.
Youth are our Priority and Responsibility
It is the bold and clear statement by the Salesians of South Asia regarding their relationship with
the young.
St. John Bosco, affectionately called Don Bosco, was not a theorist but a practical man with a compassionate heart and a zeal to save the youngsters from the all the perils and with a dream to provide them with holistic education.