St. Xavier's Higher Secondary School Pathaliaghat
Iconic FC Crowned Champions After a Thrilling Final Against Salman Khan FC The Don Bosco Knockout Football (Open Category) Tournament – Season 4.0, organised by St. Xavier’s Higher Secondary School, Pathaliaghat, concluded in grand style on October 12, 2026, at the Don Bosco Mini Stadium. The prestigious tournament, which began on September 25, brought together 35 teams from different parts of Tripura, providing a vibrant platform for young footballers to showcase their sporting talents, teamwork, discipline and passion for the beautiful game. More than a sporting event, the tournament reflected the educational vision of St. John Bosco, whose system of education promotes the all-round development of young people. Through sports and games, the school sought to nurture discipline, friendship, healthy competition and sportsmanship while keeping young people meaningfully engaged and away from anti-social activities. The tournament commenced on September 25 with a meaningful and colourful inaugural ceremony, graced by Mr. Samir Debbarma, Sports Officer, Bishramganj, as the Chief Guest. Throughout the competition, four matches were played each day, keeping football enthusiasts engaged and creating an atmosphere of excitement and enthusiasm. Four officials from the Tripura Football Federation (TFF) officiated the matches, ensuring professionalism, fairness and adherence to the rules of the game. The tournament was meticulously coordinated by the core committee headed by Mr. Animesh Debbarma, a staff member of St. Xavier’s Higher Secondary School. The well-planned fixtures, timely organisation and efficient management of the matches reflected the dedication, teamwork and professionalism of the organising team. The semi-final matches, held on October 9, saw Iconic FC and Salman Khan FC emerge victorious to secure their places in the much-anticipated final. The final on October 12 witnessed an impressive gathering of dignitaries, football lovers, local residents and supporters who thronged the Don Bosco Mini Stadium to witness the grand culmination of the tournament. Fr. Sunny Joseph SDB, Principal of Don Bosco School and Parish Priest of Pitra, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Fr. Babu Stephen, Principal of St. Xavier’s Higher Secondary School, Pathaliaghat, and Fr. K. K. Joseph, Rector, were among the distinguished dignitaries present. Addressing the gathering and the players, Fr. Babu Stephen, Fr. Sunny Joseph and Fr. K. K. Joseph highlighted the importance of sports in the holistic formation of young people. They emphasised that football teaches discipline, perseverance, teamwork, mutual respect and the ability to accept both victory and defeat with dignity. They also underlined the mission of the Don Bosco institution at Pathaliaghat to serve the educational, social and developmental needs of the local community, especially its young people. The much-awaited final kicked off at 2:30 p.m. between Iconic FC and Salman Khan FC amid thunderous applause, cheers and enthusiastic support from the spectators. The match, lasting one hour and thirty minutes with a ten-minute interval, was a breathtaking contest in which both teams displayed remarkable skill, determination and fighting spirit. After an exciting battle on the field, Iconic FC emerged as the champions with a convincing 3–1 victory over Salman Khan FC, who finished as the runners-up. The prize distribution ceremony added a fitting conclusion to the spectacular event. Fr. Babu Stephen first felicitated the four match officials from the Tripura Football Federation with mementoes in recognition of their valuable contribution to the smooth and professional conduct of the tournament. The individual awards were then presented to outstanding players in recognition of their exceptional performances, including the Best Player of the Tournament, Promising Player, Best Goalkeeper and Highest Scorer. Fr. Babu Stephen presented the runners-up trophy, medals and a cash award of ?15,000 to Salman Khan FC. The Chief Guest, Fr. Sunny Joseph SDB, presented the champions, Iconic FC, with the coveted Champion’s Trophy, medals and a cash award of ?25,000. The award ceremony was marked by jubilation, applause and heartfelt appreciation for the participating teams. The successful completion of Season 4.0 was widely appreciated by the spectators and members of the local community. The tournament brought immense joy and excitement to hundreds of players and football enthusiasts, strengthening the bond between the school and the people of Pathaliaghat. The Village Chairman Mr. Nandu Debbarma also congratulated and appreciated the school management for organising such a meaningful sporting event for the youth of Tripura. The tournament stood as a powerful example of how sports can be used as an effective means of youth development, social engagement and character formation. By providing young people with opportunities to display their abilities in a healthy and competitive environment, St. Xavier’s Higher Secondary School reaffirmed its commitment to the Salesian mission of accompanying young people and helping them become responsible citizens. The tournament was officially brought to a close by the Chief Guest, Fr. Sunny Joseph SDB, who handed over the tournament flag to Fr. Babu Stephen, Principal of St. Xavier’s Higher Secondary School, Pathaliaghat, symbolising the successful conclusion of Season 4.0 and the continuation of this sporting initiative in the years ahead. The Don Bosco Knockout Football Tournament – Season 4.0 will be remembered not merely for the goals scored or the trophies won, but for the friendships forged, the talents discovered and the spirit of unity it inspired. The school expressed its heartfelt gratitude to all participating teams, officials, dignitaries, organisers, teachers, volunteers, supporters and well-wishers who contributed to making the tournament a grand success. Season 4.0 concluded with a clear message: when young people are given the right opportunities, guidance and encouragement, sports become a powerful instrument for building character, strengthening communities and shaping a brighter future.
