USSCA Yangtam wins 1st Veteran Futsal Tournament

JASWANT GAUTAM & KUNAL RAI

GANGTOK,: The inaugural Veteran Futsal Tournament, organised by the Lal Bazaar Youth Development Committee (LYDC), concluded on a high note after five days of intense competition at the GMC Futsal Arena on Saturday. The closing ceremony was graced by Arun Upreti, minister for Rural Development & Cooperation and MLA of the Arithang constituency, as the chief guest.

A total of 16 veteran teams participated in the tournament, culminating in a thrilling final between USSCA Yangtam (Pakyong District) and Hill Stone (Bhanu Gram).

The final match saw Sonam Palzor Bhutia deliver a stellar performance, scoring a brace in the first half to give USSCA Yangtam a 2-1 lead. Hill Stone equalized early in the second half, but an unfortunate own goal tilted the balance once again in favour of USSCA.

Bhutia went on to complete his hat-trick, bringing the score to 4-2. USSCA further extended their lead, ultimately dominating the match with a 6-2 victory, securing the championship title.

Adding to the excitement, an exhibition match between the host organisation LYDC and the All Sikkim Contractors Welfare Association (ASCWA) was held, with ASCWA clinching victory in a penalty shootout.

The evening concluded with a lively performance by hip-hop artist UNB, energizing the crowd and bringing the event to a memorable close.

Minister Arun Upreti praised the organisers for their professionalism despite this being LYDC’s first major sporting event. He emphasized the importance of such initiatives in inspiring youth and diverting them from negative influences.

“The government is committed to supporting platforms that promote talent and community development. I commend LYDC for their continued social contributions through cleanliness drives and community service,” he said. He also acknowledged the State's Golden Jubilee of Statehood, affirming that the government will continue to support socially impactful initiatives throughout the jubilee year.

LYDC president K.G. Namgyal expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all supporters and participants. “This tournament marks a significant milestone for our committee. It provided an excellent platform to engage the community, especially our youth, through sports. We are deeply thankful to all the guests and teams who made this event a success,” he stated.

The winners and runners-up received cash prizes and trophies. Among the individual winners were Sonam Palzor Bhutia (highest scorer), Rohit Ansari (best player), and Kalzang Jigmee (best goalkeeper).