Jubilee Cup 2025 Brings Youth of Goa Together in a Celebration of Sports and Unity

The Diocesan Youth Centre (DYC), Goa, marked the start of the Jubilee Year with the highly anticipated Jubilee Cup 2025 that kicked off on 26th January 2025. The tournament, which took place at the Don Bosco Futsal Turf in Panjim, saw the participation of boys' and girls' teams from 19 deaneries across Goa. These teams had earned their spots through victorious performances in their respective deanery-level competitions. Boys competed in a thrilling 5-a-side futsal tournament, while girls engaged in an exciting 3-a-side Tie-Breaker shootout. The event marked the beginning of a year-long celebration, fostering unity, sportsmanship, and empowerment for the youth of Goa.

The inaugural ceremony of the tournament was a memorable one, with the deanery captains marching onto the court, each carrying their respective deanery flags. The flags were proudly paraded around the DYC flag, held by the Director of DYC, Fr. Blaise Lobo. A unique prayer service followed, where all participants held a green ribbon symbolizing hope, unity, and the power of young minds working together for a brighter future through sports. The chief guest for the day, Mr. Ryan, delivered an inspiring speech, and the guest of honor, Fr. Pio Almeida, officially declared the tournament open with the first kick.

The tournament received blessings from the Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman, Most Rev. Simiao Purificação Fernandes, who graced the occasion with his presence and offered words of encouragement to the youth. Prior to the finals, an exhibition match took place between the Young Priests and the Youth, with the Youth team emerging victorious.

In the girls’ final, Margao Deanery (Navelim Parish) triumphed over Pernem Deanery (Arambol Parish) to claim the Jubilee Cup. In the boys’ final, Margao Deanery (Borda Chapel) emerged as the champions after defeating Chinchinim Deanery (Chinchinim Parish). Individual awards were presented to Joylex (Margao Deanery, Borda Chapel) as the Best Goalkeeper and Shario (Chinchinim Deanery, Chinchinim Parish) as the Best Player. Chief Guest Mr. Ryan and Guest of Honour, Fr. Pio Almeida, presented the Jubilee Cups to the victorious teams. 

The success of the Jubilee Cup 2025 was attributed to the hard work and coordination of Joyston Fernandes and Elvinston Pereira from the DYC team, who ensured the event ran smoothly. The tournament provided an unforgettable experience for participants, highlighting the importance of youth empowerment, unity, and the enduring spirit of sportsmanship.

By Catholic Connect Reporter