“Sports must inspire unity after the whistle blows”
Senapati: The 9th edition of the Poumai Premier League (PPL) kicked off at the Astro Turf Ground, Senapati. The grand opening ceremony of PPL was graced by ST Kholi, senior manager and vigilance officer, North Eastern Region Circle Officer, Guwahati, Canara Bank as the chief guest. Sixteen franchises vying for the coveted trophy, along with thousands of soccer fans, witnessed the event.
Dr Paode A, convenor of PPL said, “PPL enables pan-Poumai collaboration to demonstrate football’s unique ability to promote equality and social inclusion. The stakeholders will be able to interact, learn from one another, acquire life skills, and become agents of change and community building.”
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Speaking at the occasion, ST Kholi put stress on the importance of professionalism and ethics while urging budding talents to dream big. He expounded that sports should be an opportunity to excel and not just a celebratory event. At a time when war, ethnic violence and religious tensions continue to obscure our common humanity, he highlighted that the Poumai Premier League has the real potential to break down barriers and challenge stereotypes.
Also, putting his views on the current Manipur situation, he stated that sports is one of the major benefactors in bringing peace and uniting people. He expressed that the league must inspire unity after the whistle blows. “I am convinced that this league will rebuild fractured relationships, both within and outside our community,” he shared.
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The first day of the league had Paokhaodu FC take on FC Bluebird in the first fixture, followed by a duel between Poumai Police and Ratung FC. The first day also had a match between Pou Legend FC and Sheku FC. The last fixture of the first day was played between Khiireih FC and Khyafii FC.
The campaign will end on October 27th, 2023.
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