Veterans Unite on the Pitch to Champion Football and Social Cause in Bangalore
Bengaluru, August 24 – In a powerful display of sportsmanship and social advocacy, the BSLA Old is Gold Freedom Cup, a veterans’ football tournament, culminated on Thursday at the Velocity Play Arena. The event, organized by BSLA and supported by Ivy Homes, saw 24 teams from across Bangalore compete not only for the trophy but also to amplify a critical message: the demand for a Rape-Free India.
A Tournament with a Deeper Goal
Beyond the goalposts, the tournament served a higher purpose. A portion of the registration fees collected from participating teams is traditionally directed by BSLA towards sports development, women empowerment, and its ongoing Rape-Free India movement. This year, the cause was personified by the ‘Fractured Gang,’ a unique team composed entirely of injured veteran players. Despite their physical limitations, they took to the field to promote football and a safe environment for women.
Team Captain Arijit and his squad were hailed for displaying true sportsmanship while using their platform to demand justice for all rape victims.
Intense Competition and Community Support
The sporting event featured fierce competition, with 24 teams initially battling it out. Eight teams advanced to the quarter-finals, followed by four in the semi-finals. The final match was a nail-biting encounter between Team Stants FC and BFA FC, which ended in a 1-1 draw. The champions were ultimately decided by a tense tiebreaker.
The community backbone of the event was robust. Young, talented footballers Sreehari, Agastya, Vihaan, and Shauriya volunteered for field-related activities, while MC Anmol managed the event’s flow. The Chef Couple Restaurant from Sarjapura Road provided cost-effective meals for all players and spectators.
A Decade of Distinction and Social Commitment
Reflecting on the organization’s journey, BSLA CEO Payel highlighted the challenges and the mission that sets them apart. “It is not easy to conduct a tournament so easily,” she stated. “Lots of communities, club supporters, and academies have copied our concept of rules and fixtures, but continuation of conducting football and working for the society from the last 10 years without stopping is what makes us different than other football tournaments. I hope like-minded people will come forward and join us in the future also.”
BSLA Director Debmalya Bhattacharyya expressed his gratitude to all 24 teams, the medical partner, trophy partner, media partner, and all donors who consistently support the cause. The event was graced by Greeshma Bernad, a national-level powerlifter, and Mukesh V, a senior principal scientist from NAL, who joined as Guests of Honour.
Winners Applaud Cause-Driven Initiative
The positive impact of the tournament resonated strongly with the winners. Shiva Kumar, owner of the winning team, praised the organization and its social mission. “Tournament organisation was amazing. I am impressed with your help to needy people ma’am. God bless those who all stand with this for this cause,” he said. “I am giving free coaching for slum people, and free uniform. We do free summer camp for 45 days with training, nutrition, and uniforms.”
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The event successfully blended competitive veteran sport with a firm stance on societal change, proving that the beautiful game can be a formidable force for advocacy and community solidarity.
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