Forca Goa Foundation, in association with Tata Punch, launched the 2022 edition of the Little Gaurs League today at St. Anthony’s High School Ground, Monte de Guirim, Mapusa in Goa. One of India’s biggest baby leagues with more than 1000 children are set to participate in the event.
The two-month long AIFF Golden Baby League affiliated tournament will see children compete across three zones across Goa (North, South and Vasco) with 120 girls signing up for the footballing extravaganza. The tournament will also serve as a platform for workshops on nutrition and sustainability for the children in addition to monthly football festivals.
This year’s edition (the third) has seen 90 teams sign up for the competition, participating across 4 categories viz. U6, U8, U10 and U12 with an exclusive U12 league designed for girls.
Speaking ahead of the tournament launch, Nathaniel D’Costa, Forca Goa Foundation’s Senior Manager for Community Football said, “We are delighted to finally get the children back out onto the field after a tumultuous time these past two years.
“We are delighted to have Tata Motors onboard with us for the season. Their support has been crucial and further vindicated the path we are taking towards developing football at the grassroots level and institutionalising the beautiful game.”
Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Rajan Amba, Vice President, Sales, Marketing and Customer Care, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd., weighed in on the development, saying, “We, at Tata Motors have always been keen to play a key role in the development of not only football but also using sports as a key catalyst to impact communities. And the Little Gaurs League presented an ideal opportunity for the same.
“We are delighted to be associated with the Little Gaurs League and looking to make a positive impact through this relationship.”
With the aim of providing opportunities for children to play regular football in a safe and organised environment, the 2022 edition of the Little Gaurs League will see nearly 500 matches scheduled for the upcoming months with teams being formed through schools, academies and communities around Goa.
Broadcast Journalist , BBC News