The 6th Edition State Level Hangpan Dada Memorial Trophy for Football & Volleyball (U-16 Boys & Girls) 2023 was inaugurated today at the Sangay Lhaden Sports Academy Football Ground. The event commenced with great enthusiasm as prominent dignitaries graced the occasion. Er Taba Tedir, Hon’ble Minister of Education & Cultural Affairs and President of Arunachal Olympic Association, was the Chief Guest, while Shri Mama Natung, Hon’ble Sports & Youth Affairs Minister, attended as the Guest of Honour. The ceremony witnessed the presence of other notable figures, including Shri Talo Potom, IAS, DC Capital, IGP Shri Chukhu Appa, IPS, Secretary General of Arunachal Olympic Association Shri Bamang Tago, and Shri Sanjeev Tana Tara, Vice Chairman & Gumnya Karbak, Director, Sports Authority of Arunachal.
Shri Tadar Appa, Director of Sports, Govt. of A.P., in his welcome speech, expressed his gratitude to Er. Taba Tedir for gracing the occasion and Shri Mama Natung for his unwavering support in organizing the state-level tournament. He highlighted the significance of the Hangpan Dada Memorial Trophy, which is conducted at three levels: constituency, district, and state. This year’s tournament has attracted around 1,500 participants, including players, officials, and volunteers from all 26 districts, including the capital complex. The primary objective of this competition is to foster mass participation at the grassroots level and enhance the overall health of the people through football and volleyball, the two most popular sports in the state.
Er. Taba Tedir expressed his delight at witnessing the thriving sports culture in Arunachal Pradesh. He mentioned the recent achievements of the state in various sporting events, such as the National Games, Khelo India Youth Games, and North East Olympic Games, which serve as indicators of progress. He expressed optimism that if this trend continues, Arunachal Pradesh has the potential to become a sports hub of India. As the Minister of Education, he encouraged the participants to pursue their dreams not only academically but also in sports, emphasizing the importance of discipline and hard work in achieving excellence.
Shri Mama Natung, known for introducing the slogan “Drugs Choro Khel Se Joro” (Quit Drugs, Embrace Sports) during the 5th Edition of HDMT last year, reiterated his appeal to the participants to steer clear of drugs and uphold the motto. He expressed hope that Arunachalee players would soon participate in the Olympic Games, and the government is actively working towards selecting and training athletes in specific disciplines to produce future Olympians.
The event was further enriched by a mesmerizing display of talent from the Wushu players of Sangay Lhaden Sports Academy, who showcased their remarkable skills in the traditional Chinese martial art. The audience was enthralled by their graceful movements and precise techniques, reflecting the dedication and training of these young athletes. Adding to the festivities, a captivating cultural dance performance by the talented Itanagar girls captivated the crowd, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh.
The tournament then kicked off with a series of exciting football matches. In the Opening Ceremony Match, West Siang emerged victorious with a 3-1 win against Capital Complex. Liki Ete (11) scored the first goal for West Siang in the 15th minute, followed by goals from Dejo Bogo (10) and Ojing Padung (02) in the second half at 35 and 45 minutes, respectively. Tani Honi (6) from Capital Complex managed to score a goal in the 68th minute.
In another thrilling match, Lower Subansiri Boys defeated Anjaw by 3-1. Mudang Lento (12) scored at 25 minutes, Midang Tubin (15) at 66 minutes, and Nenko Naring (11) at 70 minutes for Lower Subansiri. Ansu Marap (13) scored the lone goal for Anjaw at 47 minutes.
Papum Pare boys secured a 3-1 victory against Lepa Rada. In the first half, Mallo Nato (4) scored, followed by goals from Techi Ranka (12) at 1 and 34 minutes. Nabam Kamde (2) of Lepa Rada managed to score a goal in the second half at 41 minutes, but Tech Ranka from Papum Pare (12) sealed the match with a goal at 61 minutes.
Siang Boys triumphed over Upper Siang with a score of 2-1. Tani Tasing netted both goals for Siang at 9 and 10 minutes, while Kenna Lego (5) from Upper Siang scored the single goal at 69 minutes.
In the first Girls Football Match, Kamle Girls dominated with a resounding 5-0 victory against Anjaw. Kasak Yuluk (7) showcased her prowess by scoring all five goals at 23, 24, 27, 35+1, and 39 minutes, respectively.
Kurung Kumey Girls secured a 1-0 win against Anjaw, courtesy of a goal by Kipa Aku (9) at 41 minutes.
Tirap Girls displayed their skills in a 2-0 victory against West Kameng. Thintung (2) found the net at 32 minutes, and Charia Hakhun (10) scored at 50 minutes.
Capital Complex Girls showcased their dominance in a match against Papum Pare, with Nabam Rinew (15) leading the charge with three goals at 19, 56, and 58 minutes. Lingdow Yaro (3) also contributed with a goal at 39 minutes, resulting in a final score of 4-0.
The 6th Edition State Level Hangpan Dada Memorial Trophy has kicked off with thrilling matches, reflecting the growing sports culture and talent in Arunachal Pradesh. As the tournament progresses, participants are expected to showcase their skills and compete with sportsmanship, upholding the spirit of fair play and discipline.
Click here for Hanpan Dada Memorial Trophy 2023: Day 2 Results
