DRM Cup football tournament kicks off in Vizag

“The Waltair Division will continue to encourage football by hosting major tournaments regularly,” said Divisional Railway Manager and East Coast Railway Sports Association (ECoRSA) president Lalit Bohra at the inauguration of the DRM Cup All India Invitation Football Tournament at the Waltair Football Stadium on Sunday.

The tournament, organised by ECoRSA, will be held till December 21. It features 14 teams from different States and organisations. Matches are scheduled during the day and night under floodlights, providing players with competitive playing conditions.

The opening match on Sunday saw teams from Telangana and Bandamunda face each other, according to senior divisional commercial manager K. Pavan Kumar.

Mr. Bohra said such events help promote sports culture and provide a platform for young talent. He noted that the tournament coincides with the visit of international football star Lionel Messi to India to promote the game, which has added to public interest in football. He also appreciated the efforts of the organising team and various railway departments for their coordination, recalling the successful conduct of the recent weightlifting championship.

Sports Officer M. Haranath and Andhra Pradesh Football Association president Kotagiri Sreedhar also addressed the gathering and spoke on the need for continued support to football at all levels.

Jyotsna Bohra, president of the ECoR Women’s Welfare Organisation, ADRMs E. Santharam and K. Rama Rao, APFA general secretary N. Usha and ECoRSA members were present.