The 4th edition of Late, Lt Col Robert TA Memorial Open Football tournament, organized by Assam Rifles in association with Senapati District Olympic Association of Manipur, concluded successfully on February 22, 2025, after an engrosing and entertaining 18 days run that commenced on 4 February 2025.
Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Honourable Governor of Manipur, was the chief guest for the event. Other dignitaries present were Director General Assam Rifles Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, AVSM, SM, Inspector General Assam Rifles (East) Maj Gen Suresh Bhambu YSM, SM and Brig Bikram Saini YSM, SM, VSM, Commander 22 Sector Assam Rifles. Also present was Mrs. Chingpai Rangnamai, wife of Late Lt Col Robert TA, and the force behind the tournament, whose presence added a heartfelt and poignant dimension to the tournament.
The highly anticipated final match between Hills United FC and Hills Academy FC delivered an electrifying contest, showcasing the exceptional skills and determination of both teams to win the coveted trophy. In a nail biting encounter, *Hills Academy FC* came out victorious, lifting the coveted Champion trophy with a score of *3-2*
Assam Rifles, the organizers of the tournament as part of their Civil Action Programme also sponsored the prizes under various categories recognizing both individual and team performances. Mrs. Chingpai Rangnamai, wife of Late Lt Col Robert TA gave away the prizes after the final match. The Quarter-finalist teams were awarded a cash prize of Rs 15,000 each while semi-finalists received Rs 30,000 each. The best goalkeeper, Mr Mustakin from Hills United FC, the leading goal scorer of the tournament Mr John from Asufii U-17 FC and Mr George the best player of the tournament were each awarded Rs 10,000 along with a mountain bike. The runners-up, Hills United FC was awarded a cash prize of Rs 1.5 lakhs while the champion team Hills Academy FC received a grand prize of Rs 3 lakhs.
“The 4th edition of Late, Lt Col Robert TA Memorial Open Football Tournament has been a resounding success, thanks to the overwhelming support of the Senapati community and the tireless efforts of Assam Rifles. The tournament is a fitting tribute to the memory of Lt Col Robert TA and his passion for football.
