Bengaluru: The BSLA Veterans Football Tournament, popularly known as the BSLA Old is Gold Freedom Cup, took centre stage at Velocity Play Arena on Sunday. Supported by IVY Homes, the event not only celebrated the spirit of football but also advocated for social causes including sports development, women empowerment, and the Rape Free India movement.
A Tournament with a Cause
For the past decade, BSLA has been channelling registration fees collected from team entries towards social initiatives. This year, the spotlight was on a unique team – Fractured Gang – comprising veteran players who had previously sustained injuries. Despite their physical limitations, the team displayed remarkable grit and played to spread awareness about creating a safe environment for women in India.
Captain Arijit and his team donned jerseys promoting Justice for all rape victims, turning the football field into a platform for a strong social message.
Strong Participation and Thrilling Matches
A total of 24 teams from across Bengaluru participated in the tournament, with eight qualifying for the quarter-finals and four advancing to the semi-finals. The event culminated in a gripping final between Stants FC and BFA FC. Both teams scored one goal each during regular play, leading to a tense tie-breaker that decided the winner.
Spectators were treated to intense competition, with veteran players displaying both skill and sportsmanship, proving that passion for football knows no age.
Support from Guests and Young Volunteers
The event witnessed the presence of Ms Greeshma Bernad, a national-level powerlifter, and Mr Mukesh V, Senior Principal Scientist at NAL, as Guests of Honour.
Young football talents Sreehari, Agastya, Vihaan, and Shauriya volunteered on-field, assisting with match coordination and logistical arrangements. MC Anmol managed live updates and crowd engagement throughout the tournament.
BSLA’s Decade-Long Journey
BSLA CEO Payel emphasised the challenges of consistently organising such large-scale tournaments.
“Many clubs and academies may replicate our rules and fixtures, but our commitment to football and social causes for over ten years sets us apart,” she said.
BSLA Director Debmalya Bhattacharyya expressed gratitude to all 24 teams, trophy partners, medical partners, media collaborators, and donors for their unwavering support.
Community and Culinary Support
The Chef Couple Restaurant from Sarjapura Road came forward to provide cost-effective food for players and spectators, ensuring that participants stayed energised throughout the event.
Looking Ahead
With overwhelming participation and growing social impact, BSLA aims to expand the tournament in the coming years and continue using sports as a medium for positive change.