Kiphire, July 21: The GBC Youth Ministry, Kiphire, in collaboration with the NTCP CELL, Kiphire, successfully organised a two-day football tournament on 16th and 17th July 2026 at Kohri Arena, Kiphire, under the theme, “Play with Passion. Compete with Integrity. Glorify God.” The tournament aimed to promote sportsmanship, Christian fellowship, and unity among the youth of Kiphire District.
The inaugural programme was chaired by Mr. Joel Chhetri, President of the GBC Youth Ministry. Dr. Bhim Sapkota, Pastor of Gorkha Baptist Church (GBC), Kiphire, delivered the welcome address, while the invocation prayer was offered by Mr. Nusu, Pastor of Tenyimia Baptist Church, Kiphire. A special song was presented by Miss. Visa Roths.
An exhortation was delivered by Mr. Apongse, President of the Kiphire District Football Association (KDFA), who encouraged the players to uphold discipline, teamwork, integrity, and true sportsmanship while reflecting Christian values.
The programme was also addressed by Dr. Zioba T. Sangtam, Dental Surgeon, who encouraged the players to pursue sports with dedication and discipline. He urged them to make sports a lifelong passion rather than remaining seasonal players and encouraged them to become role models of true sportsmanship. He also highlighted that commitment to sports can open opportunities to support their families and build successful careers through their talents.
The Guest of Honour, Smti. Shanti Gurung, Sub-Treasury Officer, Kiphire, appreciated the GBC Youth Ministry, the NTCP CELL, Kiphire, and the organising committee for successfully conducting such a meaningful tournament for the youth and the people of Kiphire District. She remarked that the event was not merely a football competition but also an opportunity to strengthen fellowship among churches and promote unity through sports. She encouraged all participating players to play with discipline, respect, integrity, and a spirit of sportsmanship, regardless of the outcome of the match.
The tournament was officially inaugurated with the ceremonial kick-off by the Guest of Honour.
A total of 11 teams participated in the two-day tournament. Following a series of exciting and closely contested matches, Phoenix FC and Abide FC advanced to the grand finale. In the championship match, Phoenix FC defeated Abide FC by 3–1 to emerge as the tournament champions, while Abide FC finished as the runners-up.
The tournament concluded with the prize distribution ceremony, presentation of awards, and a group photograph with the champion team. The event was widely appreciated by participants, church leaders, football enthusiasts, and well-wishers for promoting friendship, healthy competition, Christian fellowship, and unity through sports.
