Agartala (Tripura), June 22: The Umakanta Ground was buzzing with excitement on Sunday during a friendly football match organised celebrating the first anniversary of the Agartala Sports Journalists’ Club.
It was a delightful clash of generations and professions, pitting the seasoned veterans from the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports against the passionate, if less polished, squad from the Agartala Sports Journalists’ Club.
Veterans Show Their Class, Journalists Fight With Heart
For 50 action-packed minutes, the former football stars, representing the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, put on a masterclass, showcasing the enduring skills that once graced the pitches of Tripura. Their finesse and teamwork were evident, leading them to a 4-0 victory.
However, the scoreline doesn’t tell the whole story of the Agartala Sports Journalists’ Club’s valiant effort. Keeping their pens and cameras aside, journalists and photojournalists, led by captain Subhash Ghosh, played with incredible spirit and determination, refusing to back down despite the odds.
In a show of their individual brilliance, two players from the Agartala Sports Journalists’ Club clinched “Best Player of the Match” awards, proving they were true contenders on the field despite the final score.
Suman Saha and Robin Kaloi were recognized for their outstanding performances, alongside Abu Taher and Makhan Lal Jamatia from the winning side.
A Celebration of Sports and Community
The day kicked off with fanfare, as Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Tinku Roy officially inaugurated the match. He was joined by a distinguished lineup of sports dignitaries, including S.B. Nath, Director of the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, and Pranab Sarkar, president of TFA and Chief Advisor of the Agartala Sports Journalists’ Club. Also present were Tapan Saha and Krishnapada Sarkar, Joint Secretaries of TFA.
The Agartala Sports Journalists’ Club, with its president Shantanu Banik, Secretary Santosh Gope, and member Debabrata Chakraborty leading the welcome, ensured a warm reception for all guests.
After a formal introduction to both teams, Minister Roy performed the ceremonial kick-off. In a brief but impactful speech, he commended the club’s initiative and highlighted the significant strides sports in Tripura have made, attributing it to the state government’s dedicated efforts.
Awards and Appreciation
Following the spirited match, a prize distribution ceremony capped off the event. Minister Tinku Roy proudly presented the champion’s trophy to the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, while the Agartala Sports Journalists’ Club received the runners-up trophy from Pranab Sarkar.
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The “Best Player” trophies were handed out by S.B. Nath, Shantanu Banik, Tapan Saha, and Krishnapada Sarkar.
Santosh Gope, Secretary of the Agartala Sports Journalists’ Club, extended heartfelt gratitude to the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, TFA, and everyone who contributed to the day’s success.
Behind the scenes, Minakshi Ghosh served as the coach for the journalists’ team, Swaroopa Naha as manager, Debabrata Chakraborty as technical director, and Chandrima Sirkar coordinated the entire program, ensuring a memorable day for all involved.
