South India Unites for Education: Veterans’ Football Tournament Supports Underprivileged Schools

A Sporting Event with a Noble Cause

In a heartwarming display of unity and philanthropy, the Bengaluru Sports Lovers Association (BSLA) hosted the 5th Edition of the Old is Gold Veterans Tournament (40+ years) on 20th July at VeloCT Play Arena, Bengaluru. But this wasn’t just another football competition—it was a powerful movement to uplift education for underprivileged children.

Teams from Secunderabad, Chennai, Chikmagalur, Pondicherry, and Kerala traveled to Bengaluru, answering BSLA’s call to “Come Forward for Back to School: Education for All.” Their participation fees directly contributed to donating computers, Anganwadi utensils, play items, and stationery to a government school in Thindlu Village, handed over to the headmaster, Mr. Murali K. Additionally, BSLA supported a local NGO run by Advocate Tejaswini S. by providing essential supplies for underprivileged children.

Inspiring Support from Sports and Social Icons

The event saw remarkable support from influential figures. Mrs. Greeshma Bernad, an IT professional and national-level powerlifter, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour, reinforcing the importance of “Education for All.”

Adding to the spirit, the Abhaya Bravery Award-winning ladies’ team stepped forward to champion the cause, while Mr. Antony Sajeeth, owner of PINK ROOM, sponsored the tournament trophies.

Victory on the Field, Impact Beyond It

A total of 24 veteran teams competed fiercely, with Viveknagar FC, led by captain Naveen Babu, emerging as champions. The runners-up trophy went to Old Monks FC from Bengaluru.

However, the real winners were the children who will now have better access to education and resources. Payel Sengupta, Founder of BSLA, expressed gratitude and called for continued support: “This is just the beginning. We urge all football lovers to join us in our next tournament in August to keep this noble cause alive.”

A Collective Effort for Change

The event’s success was made possible by the relentless efforts of Debmalya Bhattacharyya, Ayan Pramanik, Privil Rodrigues, Devi Bala, and Advocate Rawley Muddappa, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.

As BSLA prepares for its next initiative, the message is clear: sports can be a powerful tool for social change. By uniting passion with purpose, South India’s veteran footballers are proving that age is no barrier to making a difference.

Join the movement. Support the cause. Because every child deserves a chance to learn.

Key Quotes:

• Payel Sengupta (Founder, BSLA):
  “This isn’t just a tournament—it’s a movement. Every registration fee, every match played, helps a child get closer to education. We’re just getting started.”

• Mrs. Greeshma Bernad (National Powerlifter & Guest of Honour):
  “Sports and education go hand in hand. If we can inspire even one child through this initiative, we’ve already won.”

• Mr. Murali K. (Headmaster, Thindlu Govt School):
  “These contributions mean the world to our students. A computer today could shape a scientist or engineer tomorrow.”

• Naveen Babu (Captain, Viveknagar FC, Champions):
  “Winning feels great, but knowing our game helped kids? That’s the real trophy.”

  

Q&A Section:

Q: Why combine sports with education support?
A: “Sports brings people together like nothing else. If we can channel that energy into social good, why not?” – Debmalya Bhattacharyya, BSLA Organizer

Q: What’s next for BSLA’s campaign?
A: “We’re planning another tournament in August and expanding to more schools. The goal? No child left behind.” – Payel Sengupta

Q: How can the public contribute?
A: “Join us on the field, donate supplies, or just spread the word. Every bit counts.” – Advocate Rawley Muddappa