One hundred and eighty players from 20 teams got to showcase their skills, but it was the MEG Boys who remained unbeaten to win the 6th edition of the Chairos Bheemaiah Hockey Cup. The 5-a-side tournament took place at the Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa Hockey Arena, Bengaluru, from January 10 to 12.
MEG Boys defeated DYES 4-0 to claim the bragging rights, as Nithish Sharma scored a brace and Manjeeth and Sachin Kumar contributed with one goal each to help their team win the trophy.
Sachin, who was adjudged the Man of the Tournament, terrorised opponents as he netted 24 goals alone in the tournament.
Asked about his journey in the competition, Sachin, who represents Haryana, lauded the facilities he was provided and the quality of the other teams. He said, “I want to represent India and win an Olympic medal for the country.”
It was, however, not all gloom and doom for the Runners-Up as Chetan Kumar was adjudged the best goalkeeper.
A total of 47 matches were played, including the semi-finals and the final.
The event was organised by the Coorg Challengers Chickpet Association (CCCA) under the aegis of Karnataka Hockey, with sponsorships from Chairos and QNET.
This is the second edition that was sponsored by QNET. Previously, they had come in as sponsors in April 2021. The sixth edition took place after a gap of four years. The Covid situation and other constraints had put a hold on the tournament.
“QNET has supported different types of sports through the years, not just because it helps us share our brand with a wider audience, but also because we recognise the similarities between sports and entrepreneurship,” a QNET spokesperson said.
“Hard work, commitment, teamwork, and focus — these are traits that one needs to succeed, both in business and in sports. QNET has supported team sports such as Hockey, Formula One and Football, and also partnered with sporting events in Badminton and Tennis. Additionally, QNET also supports talented individuals in mountaineering, martial arts and motorsports,” the spokesperson added.
M P Ganesh, Padma Shri awardee and former India field hockey captain, who watched the finals as the Guest of Honour, lauded the set up and the tournament.
“This is what is required,” Ganesh said. “Children should be able to play different games so that they can develop intellectually.”
Achaiah BJ, Chief Co-ordinator and Treasurer, CCCA, said the association has always been passionate towards hockey. He also lauded the sponsors and hoped for continued support.
