Senapati: The 5th Edition of the Lt Col Robert (TA) Memorial Open Football Tournament, recognised as the biggest football tournament in Manipur, was inaugurated on Wednesday at the Astro Turf Ground, Senapati, drawing a massive public turnout and enthusiastic response from football lovers across the region.
The tournament is organised by the Assam Rifles, in collaboration with Senapati District Olympic Association Manipur (SDOAM) with the objective of promoting sportsmanship, youth engagement, unity, and positive community interaction.
The opening ceremony was graced by Commander, 22 Sector, Assam Rifles. Also present were leaders and representatives of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) including the Naga Peoples’ Organisation (NPO), All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM), Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA), Senapati District Women Association (SDWA), Senapati District Bar Association (SDBA), Cricket Association Senapati, Hill District Sports Associations of Manipur, and veterans of the Assam Rifles.
The organisers highlighted that the Robert Cup is more than just a football competition and stands as a symbol of sacrifice and unity, promoting harmony among different tribes and communities. The tournament also aims to inspire the youth of Manipur to channel their energy towards sports and positive pursuits.
The tournament was formally inaugurated by P.
Chingpai, wife of Lt Col (Late) Robert TA in the presence of civil and military dignitaries, local representatives, and a large gathering of spectators.
The programme began with a bike rally from Mao Martyrs Park to the Astro Turf Ground, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony in honour of Late Lt Col Robert (TA). A stirring band performance by the Assam Rifles added patriotic fervour to the occasion.
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Late Lt Col Robert (TA): A Brief Profile
Late Lt Col Robert (TA) was a distinguished officer of the Indian Army and the first Army officer from the Maram Naga community. Commissioned into the 3 Engineer Regiment in 2004, he was known for his leadership, professionalism, and passion for sports. An accomplished sportsman, he led his team to victory in the Army Adventure Challenge Cup in 2008 and was awarded the Vice Chief of Army Staff Commendation. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in 2017 and made the supreme sacrifice on 14 May 2020 during a patrol in an avalanche in North Sikkim.
The Robert Cup Memorial Trophy was unveiled by P. Chingpai, marking a solemn moment of remembrance and respect.
An exhibition match between the 3 Engineer Regiment Team, the parent unit of Late Lt Col Robert (TA), and the Organisers’ XI was played thereafter, drawing loud cheers from the packed stands. The Organisers’ XI won the match 2–1 in a closely contested encounter.
The tournament will be held from 5 to 23 February in a league-cum-knockout format, with the participation of 19 teams from Senapati, Kangpokpi, Imphal, Ukhrul, and Chandel, representing communities including Nagas, Kukis, and Gorkhas. The winning team will take home a cash prize of ₹3,50,000, adding further excitement and competitive spirit to the tournament.
With packed stands and strong public participation, the Robert Cup Memorial Football Tournament once again reaffirmed its position as Manipur’s premier football event, celebrating sporting excellence while honouring the legacy of Late Lt Col Robert (TA).