Football Development Programme Launched in Latehar, Jharkhand, to Empower Tribal Youth

Latehar, Jharkhand, July 19, 2025— The Diocese of Daltonganj, in partnership with Street Providence, a Goa-based NGO, launched a football development programme on Thursday, July 17, at St. Mariam Hindi Medium School in Latehar, a village located around 250 kilometres from Jharkhand’s capital, Ranchi. The initiative aims to promote sports among tribal youth by providing training and support to 60 students—30 boys and 30 girls—from the school.

The launch event of the programme was held on the school's football field and was presided over by Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas SFX, Bishop of Daltonganj. Nearly 1,500 students belonging to various tribal and religious backgrounds, along with several priests, teachers, and community members, attended the launch function. 

Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas SFX blessed the jerseys, boots, stockings, and footballs before joyfully kicking a football to declare the initiative open.

In his address, Bishop Theodore reflected on the deeper vision of Catholic education: 

“Our mission is not only to shape minds with knowledge but also to shape hearts with love, to lift spirits with faith, and to strengthen bodies with discipline and health.” He emphasised that sports build community, character, and respect—qualities essential for a life of dignity and purpose.

Street Providence, known for its work with the destitute through shelter homes across Goa, Manipur, and Jharkhand, has extended its outreach to sports development through this football development programme. 

Mr. Donald Fernandes, the founder-trustee of Street Providence, had travelled from Goa to Latehar to attend the launch event. He announced that each player from the school team would receive ₹5,000 if they win at the district level and ₹10,000 if they triumph at the state level, drawing loud cheers from the students. 

Students presented the inauguration ceremony with energy and warmth, offering a vote of thanks in Hindi and even bravely attempting a few lines in English. They were supported by Fathers Amit Xaxa, Santosh Ekka, and Jyotish Baxla, as well as the Sisters of St. Anne and teaching staff. 

The misty rain and verdant surroundings created an evocative backdrop for what many described as a day of inspiration and renewed hope.

The football initiative promises not only to nurture talent but also to sow the seeds of self-confidence, teamwork, and opportunity for tribal youth in Jharkhand’s remote regions.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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