11-06-18 Guwahati- Bhaichung Bhutia (6)
Former Indian Football captain Bhaichung Bhutia Playing football during a program at SAI field in Guwahati on 11-06-18. Pix BY UB photos Representative image

Dzongri Club, Gangtok is gearing up to organize the fourth edition of Sikkim Veterans Football Tournament 2018 in a grand manner from 15-22 September here at Paljor Stadium.

The tournament, which is strictly for footballers of above 40 years, will have more than ten teams from Sikkim, Siliguri, Darjeeling and Kalimpong. Darjeeling Veterans is the defending champion of the tournament.

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Dzongri Club is one of the oldest and popular clubs of Sikkim formed in year 1980, which has produced many skilled and talented footballers from the State.

Addressing a press conference at Paljor Stadium conference hall, the organizing committee chairman, Thupten Rapgyal mentioned that this annual tournament was mainly a recreational activity for ex-footballers and veterans of above 40 years to encourage them to stay fit and healthy.

He added that the tournament has also aimed to engage them in the productive and sporting activities. “The tournament is also a good and rare opportunity for young footballers to once again to witness the game of former national and state footballers,” he stated.

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Organizing committee general secretary, Sumeet Thirani mentioned that the registration for the tournament will be closed at 5 PM on 10 September and fixture will be drawn on 12 September at 1 PM.

The tournament carries cash prizes and trophies. The knockout tournament will have matches of 35 minutes each half and substitution upto seven players are allowed in a match. He mentioned that original voter card was mandatory for every player to show before the match, for age proof.

Dzongri Club executive members have thanked the Department of Sports & Youth Affairs for their constant support to the club and to the tournament. The club has also appealed the football lovers to support the tournament with their presence. The club has also urged the people to come forward if they want to support the tournament.