by Brother Sheldon Dias
CHHOTAUDEPUR, JULY 25, 2017: Twenty-seven teams comprising of 243 youth from across Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, participated in the 7–a-side Past Pupil Cup at the 
Don Bosco Chhotaudepur football pitch on July 23.
The tournament – with an aim to provide an inclusive platform to both present and past pupils – drew youth in their numbers to rejuvenate the Salesian spirit. The tournament, a festive gathering of students of Don Bosco institutions in and around Gujarat, was organised by the past pupils of Don Bosco Chhotaudepur under the guidance of Brother Ramesh Durairaj.
The tournament kicked off with an exhibition match between the students of standard six and nine. The first round was held on a knock-out basis, after which the remaining teams were divided under four leagues. A round robin format followed, which eventually led to a 'Champions League' final where CFC Don Bosco edged out Don Bosco Snehalya 1-0 on penalties to claim the title.
The CFC Don Bosco team consisted of the past pupils of Chhotaudepur 2014 batch. They gifted the cash prize of Rs 5000 to the institute for encouraging the present generation in sports. "The team spirit was fantastic," Ganesh Rathwa, a member of the wining team, said. "All the pupils supported each other really well and the day has marked a brilliant end retaining the title for us."
"We were thrilled to host the 7-a-side Cup once again following the success of the event in previous years," Brother Durairaj, said. Vijay Rauji, past pupil of the institute now currently working with Reserve Bank of India, sports department, was the chief guest at the event. He said, "Don Bosco has always catered to holistic formation of every individual and students like me are examples of its success. Yes, it has been an important part of my life. Thanks to all the fathers and brothers who made this difference in my life."
Father Charlin Chandran from Alirajpur was invited to represent all the Salesians - priests and brothers - from the region, who joined in the game too. "Sports is really a powerful means, to unite all of us under the banner of Don Bosco, " Father Chandran said.