Nawanshahr football match draws youth, promotes healthy living

In an effort to encourage the younger generation to stay connected with sports and away from drugs and mobile addiction, the Shaheed Bhagat Singh Legends Banga Block Football Club organised an exciting football match at Hardev Singh Sports Stadium, Kahma, under the leadership of national footballer Gyan Chand Pathak and with the support of football coach Gurnam Singh.

The event was aimed at motivating village youths to actively participate in outdoor sports and adopt a healthy lifestyle. The match was played between the teams led by Gyan Chand Pathak and Sarabjit Singh, both consisting of experienced and enthusiastic footballers.

District mass media officer Tarsem Lal said players from Sarabjit Singh’s team, including Bhinda Jindowal, Gurdeep Bhatti, Tarsem Lal and football coach Jasvir Lal Naura, displayed excellent passing and teamwork. Their coordinated efforts resulted in three goals by Tarsem Lal, while Jasvir Lal and Gurdeep Bhatti scored one goal each.

In the second half, Gyan Chand Pathak’s team made a strong comeback. Players Avtar Singh, Gurnam Singh Kahma and Ladi Mahal Gehlan demonstrated impressive coordination and attacking game. Ladi Mahal scored two goals, while Gurnam Singh, Gyan Chand Pathak and Avtar Singh added one goal each with brilliant finishing.

The thrilling contest ended in a 5-5 draw, but organisers described the real victory as the spirit of football and the enthusiasm generated among young spectators, many of whom expressed a desire to take up the sport.

A large number of sports lovers and local residents attended the match and cheered enthusiastically for the players throughout the game.

Sarabjit Singh said the players showcased excellent sportsmanship, discipline and teamwork during the match. He added that such events help build confidence and unity among youngsters.

National footballer Gyan Chand Pathak said sports can play a vital role in guiding youths towards a healthy and positive lifestyle and efforts to promote football in villages will continue.

Tarsem Lal said under the club’s ongoing campaign to promote football in rural areas, Kahma village was selected for this event. He stressed that the club aims to motivate youngsters to spend less time on mobile games and become more active on playgrounds.

“We want the younger generation to stay connected with sports and contribute positively towards society and the nation, while also fulfilling the dreams of our martyrs,” he added.