The Indian Air Force (IAF) recently hosted the 64th edition of the Subroto Cup International Football Tournament, a prestigious event aimed at nurturing young athletic talent. In a standout performance, Minerva Public School from Mohali, affiliated with the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE), claimed victory in the Sub Junior Boys (U-15) category with a dominating score of 6-0 against Vidyachal International School from Muzaffarpur, Bihar.
The tournament highlights the IAF’s commitment to promoting sports among youth across the nation. Air Marshal Tejinder Singh, the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Training Command, was present to award the winners’ trophy to the victorious team. The event also recognized sportsmanship, with P.R. Sreejesh, a celebrated former Indian hockey goalkeeper who has received both the Padma Bhushan and the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award, presenting the Fair Play Trophy along with a reward of ₹50,000 to Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti from Pakur.
Supported by the State Bank of India (SBI), the tournament featured teams from various international backgrounds, contributing to the evolution of sports infrastructure in India. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Sports Sciences emphasized the importance of early competitive exposure in fostering long-term athletic development, a principle that resonates well with the ethos of this tournament.
As the competition progresses into the U-17 Boys category, the IAF has extended its best wishes to all participants, officials, and organizers, promising more exhilarating football action in the days ahead. This event not only showcases young talent but also reaffirms the role of sports in shaping future leaders and fostering teamwork among youth.
