On Sunday, July 20, the Bengaluru Sports Lovers Association (BSLA) hosted the 5th edition of the “Old is Gold” Veterans Football Tournament (40+ years) at VeloCT Play Arena, Bengaluru. This edition went beyond sports, uniting teams from across South India in a powerful drive for better education.
The tournament supported a government school in Thindlu Village, where BSLA donated computers, Anganwadi utensils, play materials, and stationery to the school’s Headmaster, Mr. Murali K, using the teams’ registration fees. They also extended help to a local NGO run by Advocate Tejaswini S, providing educational supplies for underprivileged children.
Inspired by the #BackToSchoolForAll social media appeal, teams traveled from Secunderabad, Chennai, Chikkamagaluru, Kerala, and Pondicherry to participate.
Mrs. Greeshma Bernad, a city-based IT professional and national-level powerlifter, graced the event as Guest of Honour, lending her voice to the cause of universal education. The Abhaya Bravery Award-winning women’s team also joined in support.
Mr. Antony Sajeeth, owner of The Pink Room, sponsored the trophies. Among 24 competing teams, Viveknagar FC, led by Captain Naveen Babu, claimed the championship, while Old Monks FC from Bengaluru finished runners-up.
BSLA’s founder Payel Sengupta announced another tournament in August to continue the mission. Supporters including Debmalya Bhattacharyya, Ayan Pramanik, Privil Rodrigues, Devi Bala, and Advocate Rawley Muddappa contributed to the event’s success.