St. Albert’s College, Ranchi Clinch Victory in Football Final on Independence Day

Ranchi, August 16, 2025 – St. Albert’s College emerged champions in the Loyola Hostel Boys Sports Committee football tournament, securing a narrow 1–0 victory over Loyola Hostel B team in the final. The week-long tournament, featuring 16 participating teams, concluded on 15 August, coinciding with both the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and India’s Independence Day.

The fiercely contested final witnessed a decisive goal from Bro. Nutan Lakra of the Ranchi Archdiocese, sealing St. Albert’s triumph and continuing their proud legacy of victories.

The chief guest, Vincent Aind, Archbishop of Ranchi, congratulated the teams for their spirited performances. “Football is a means to connect people in friendship and sportsmanship. It not only keeps us physically fit but also brings tranquillity of mind in today’s busy world,” he remarked. The Archbishop later distributed the prizes to the winners and runners-up, including the traditional Khasi (male goat) trophy.

During the felicitation, several outstanding players were recognised for their contributions:

• Bro. Nutan Lakra (Ranchi Archdiocese): Man of the Match
• Bro. Sabil Toppo (Gumla Diocese): Man of the Series
• Bro. Jacob Tirkey (Tezpur Diocese): Highest Scorer of the Tournament
• Bro. Roshan Lepcha (Darjeeling Diocese): Best Goalkeeper

The tournament owed much of its success to the dedication of the sports moderators, Fr. Fabian Kullu and Fr. Gulshan Minj, who trained the players with commitment and discipline. They were ably supported by Fr. Suman Ekka and Fr. Solomon Tirkey, who offered valuable guidance and strategic follow-up.

Acknowledging the support behind the celebrations, organisers expressed gratitude to Archbishop’s House, DSA Mother House, Sadhvana (Ranchi Jesuit Provincial House), Ursuline Convent, and Rector Fr. Ajay Kumar Xax, whose contributions added colour and joy to the victory festivities.

With this win, St. Albert’s not only celebrated another sporting milestone but also highlighted the role of football in fostering unity, discipline, and enduring camaraderie.

By Alok Toppo, SAC Ranchi

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