Dubai: The Konkan Yuva Badminton Tournament Season 4, held at the World Trade Center, Dubai, was a spectacular event that showcased exceptional talent and sportsmanship. Organized by Konkan Yuva, the youth wing of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Konkani Community Dubai, the tournament brought together the top 112 badminton teams residing across the UAE, primarily from Konkani Catholic communities in Mangalore, Udupi, Karwar, and Goa.
Konkan Yuva, established in February 2005, aims to create a ‘home away from home’ for Konkan youth in the UAE. Over the years, under the guidance of Directors (Priests) at St. Mary’s Church, Dubai, Konkan Yuva has organized various events, making their journey exciting, challenging, and fruitful.
The tournament commenced with a ceremonious opening. Mr. Denzil Moras, President of Konkan Yuva, welcomed all participants and attendees, highlighting the significance of the event in fostering community spirit and celebrating athletic talent within the Konkan community in Dubai. Rev. Fr. Victor Fernandes, Spiritual Director of Konkan Yuva, blessed the event, emphasizing the importance of sportsmanship and fair play. The trophy unveiling ceremony, featuring Fr. Victor, representatives from St. Mary’s Mangalorean Committee, KY Sports Secretary Mr. Prasanth, and other representatives of Konkan Yuva, added to the anticipation and excitement among participants.
Fr. Victor also had the honor of inaugurating the tournament with a symbolic first serve, marking the official commencement of the day’s competitive matches.
Key Highlights of the Tournament
- Participation: 112 teams and 200 talented players, including 64 Men’s Doubles, 32 Mixed Doubles, and 16 Women’s Doubles.
- Matches: A total of 193 matches were played under the watchful eyes of 15 referees.
- Organizers: 60 dedicated Konkan Yuva Members ensured the event ran smoothly.
Tournament Winners
- Men’s Doubles:
- Winners: Smashers (Joy Sunil Rodrigues & Shyam Kumar)
- First Runner Up: United Loretto Friends A (Alexander Sagin Joseph & Stephen Raj James)
- Second Runner Up: Simple Guys (Nelson Rajan Quadros & Visweswar V. Pai)
- Third Runner Up: Jenvin (Joshve Adwin Dsouza & Minul Parves)
- Women’s Doubles:
- Winners: Baddies (Chanel Samantha D’Sa & Thanseeha Biju)
- First Runner Up: United Loretto Friends Team (Reshma Suvaris & Rochelle David)
- Second Runner Up: Spark Dubai (Pramitha Dsouza & Monalisa Neendor)
- Third Runner Up: Drop Shot Divas (Lavita Maria Monteiro & Joslin Meera Fernandes)
- Mixed Doubles:
- Winners: Lefty Righty (Kevin Samuel Suares & Chanel Samantha D’sa)
- First Runner Up: Globelink Weststar A (Prima Fernandes & Avishanth Saji)
- Second Runner Up: Team Absolute Aces (Amitha Pereira & Ahmed Aslam Khan)
- Third Runner Up: Kent Smashes (Lenita Dsouza & Vimaleshwaran)
Prizes were also distributed for winners of the badminton tournament held on 23rd June 2024 for Konkan Yuva Members.
- Men’s Doubles: Category A
- Winners: Steven & Cliton
- First Runner Up: Ashwin & Pressley
- Men’s Doubles: Category B
- Winners: Denzil & Joyston
- First Runner Up: Mitesh & Elton
- Women’s Doubles:
- Winners: Ivy & Julita
- First Runner Up: Elvita & Teena
The tournament was a testament to the incredible gaming spirit and sportsmanship demonstrated by all participants. The enthusiasm and passion for badminton were palpable, making the event a grand celebration of the sport. The vibrant atmosphere resonated with enthusiastic fans cheering for their favorite players, underscoring both the competitive spirit and camaraderie within the badminton community.
Notable personalities and dignitaries present at the closing ceremony included Rev. Fr. Victor Fernandes (St. Mary’s Catholic Church Dubai), Rev. Fr. Sunil Dsilva (Diocese of Udupi), Mr. Walter Nandalike (founder of Daijiworld.com), Mr. Kevin Fernandes (founder of Mika Technical Services), Jebel Ali Church Mangalorean Community Coordinators Mr. Clement and Mr. Adith, and members of Konkan Yuva representatives. They were welcomed by Mr. Viyon, past President of KY and current Vice Coordinator of St. Mary’s Mangalorean Community. Fr. Sunil and Mr. Walter Nandalike emphasized the significance of sportsmanship, health, fitness, and dedication in their addresses. The closing ceremony was skillfully compered by Ivy Dsouza, adding a touch of grace to the occasion.
In summary, the Konkan Yuva Badminton Tournament Season 4 was a resounding success, celebrating the sport of badminton and honoring the exceptional athletes who participated.