Grand Finale of All India Sainik Schools Inter Group Football Tournament 2025 Held at Sainik School Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar :- The All India Sainik Schools Inter Group Football Tournament 2025 drew to a spectacular close this evening at Sainik School Bhubaneswar, with a vibrant closing ceremony held at 16:00 hrs. The week-long championship, which began on 7th June, witnessed spirited participation from Sainik Schools across the country in three categories — Under-17 Boys, Under-15 Boys, and Under-17 Girls.
The Chief Guest for the occasion was Padma Shri Dr. Dilip Kumar Tirkey, President of Hockey India and former captain of the Indian national hockey team. In his address, Dr. Tirkey congratulated all the participating teams for their unwavering determination, discipline, and display of true sportsmanship throughout the tournament. He also commended the role of Sainik Schools in shaping future leaders through holistic development and robust sporting culture.
The closing ceremony featured the much-awaited Prize Distribution, where the winning and runner-up teams in each category were felicitated :-
Under-17 Boys Champion – Sainik School Bhubaneswar Runners Up – Sainik School Kodagu
Under-15 Boys Champion – Sainik School Kunjpura Runners Up – Sainik School East Siang
Under-17 Girls Champion – Sainik School Sambalpur Runners Up – Sainik School East Siang
These three champion teams have now earned the honour of representing the Sainik Schools Society in the upcoming Subroto Cup Football Tournament, one of the most prestigious inter-school football competitions in the country.
In his vote of thanks, Colonel Pankaj Kumar, Principal of Sainik School Bhubaneswar, expressed his gratitude to the Chief Guest, dignitaries, team officials, and support staff for making the event a grand success. He also lauded the cadets for upholding the values of unity, discipline, and resilience throughout the championship.
Colonel Kumar noted, “This tournament was not just about football, but about forging bonds, cultivating leadership, and celebrating the spirit of national integration that defines the Sainik School ethos.” The closing ceremony concluded with the lowering of the championship flag, marking the end of a truly memorable and inspiring sporting event.
