The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Dr Owais Ahmad on Friday inaugurated th 9th edition of Syed Hashmeer Football Cup-2023 at Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium Bandipora.
The tournament is being held in the memory of sportsperson Late Bilal Ahmad Tantray and is being organised and self-sponsored by Hashmee Football Club Bandipora in collaboration with JK Sports Council and DFA Bandipora.
The Inaugural Match was played between Ali Jan FC Srinagar and Elites Blues Baramulla.
Officials said 16 local teams from District Bandipora and 8 teams from outside District’s are participating in the tournament.
On the occasion, Dr. Owais interacted with the players and appreciated them for taking part in sports activities. He also hailed the services of organisers in providing opportunity to the local youth to spend their energies in productive works.
He said the best way to get fit and healthy besides staying away from contracting drug addiction is to take part in sports activities.
He said the government has taken keen interest to provide best sports facilities to the youth of Kashmir and several playgrounds have been developed in at least every village besides constructing an indoor stadium at Shadipora and renovating and improving infra at SK Stadium.
Dr Owais said more measures will be taken to involve the youth in sports activities so that they not only play it for entertainment but are trained to play professionally to make sports as a career option.
He said Bandipora has shown the way to the whole UT by producing some distinguished Sportspersons who have not only brought laurels for the country but are also spending their energies to train the new generation. He said the government will take every necessary measure to promote sports in the district.
He also urged the players to be the brand ambassadors of Nasha Mukt Bharat by playing their role to stay away from drugs and help others to stay away from this menace.
