St. Anne’s High School ‘A’ (Fort) and Marwari Vidyalaya High School (Charni Road) emerged as champions in the under-16 girls and boys categories respectively during the recent St Sebastian HS Centenary Celebrations inter-school football championship. The event took place on the freshly-laid artificial turf of St Sebastian school in Dabul and was attended by an enthusiastic crowd of supporters and well-wishers.
In the girls’ under-16 final, it was an inter-team clash as St. Anne’s ‘A’ faced off against their junior counterparts, St. Anne’s ‘B’. The match was tightly contested and displayed a high level of skill and sportsmanship from both teams. The only goal of the match, and the decisive one, came from St. Anne’s ‘A’ striker Anushka Vijayakar. Her goal led St. Anne’s ‘A’ to a narrow 1-0 victory, ensuring their claim to the championship title.
The day’s events didn’t end there. Following the intense girls’ final, the boys’ under-16 final saw Marwari Vidyalaya High School take on St Teresa High School (Girgaum). Both teams displayed remarkable vigor and athleticism, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats throughout the match. It wasn’t until the second half that Marwari Vidyalaya managed to break the deadlock. Hardworking forward Parth Gohil became the hero for his team, scoring the lone goal that clinched the title for Marwari Vidyalaya with a 1-0 victory over St Teresa High School.
Previous to the major under-16 finals, younger football enthusiasts had their moment in the spotlight. Campion School (Cooperage) secured the boys’ under-12 title with a comfortable 2-0 win against Marwari Vidyalaya. The goals for Campion were netted by Martin Quer and Ayaan Khan, ensuring they walked away with the trophy.
Not only were the team performances celebrated, but individual talents were also recognized and awarded.
. In the under-16 girls category, Christine Fernandes from St. Anne’s ‘A’ was honored as the top scorer while Zoya Sheriffi from St. Anne’s ‘B’ was recognized as the Most Valuable Player (MVP). These accolades highlighted the exceptional skills and contributions of both players throughout the tournament.
In the boys’ under-16 category, Ashlin Alva from Campion School secured the top scorer award. However, the standout performer and the recipient of the MVP award was Parth Gohil from Marwari Vidyalaya, whose decisive goal not only won his team the championship but also made a lasting impression with his tenacity and skill on the field.
The double triumph for St. Anne’s and Marwari Vidyalaya was greeted with jubilation by students, teachers, and supporters alike. The victories are seen as a testament to the hard work, discipline, and dedication of the young athletes and their respective coaching staff.
Back at St Sebastian’s newly renovated turf, the atmosphere was electrifying. Families, friends, and past students gathered not only to support but to reminisce about their own days in school contests. The centenary celebrations added a layer of significance to the event, making every goal, every play, and every moment on the field even more memorable.
The successful conclusion of the St Sebastian HS Centenary Celebrations inter-school football championship has set a higher benchmark for future school sports competitions. The event has not only highlighted emerging young talent but has also fostered a spirit of camaraderie and healthy competition among various participating schools.
Parents and coaches expressed their pride and satisfaction at the development and showcase of skills by these young athletes. The heavy investments by schools in sports infrastructure and training programs are evidently reaping rewards, promising a bright future for sports at the grassroots level.
The championship has undoubtedly etched its mark in the annals of school-level football. St. Anne’s ‘A’ and Marwari Vidyalaya High School have firmly established themselves as formidable teams, inspiring many young athletes across the region to aspire for similar success. As they celebrated their well-earned victories, the anticipation for next year’s tournament has already begun, with teams eager to contend and perhaps dethrone the reigning champions.
