The GBC Youth Ministry, Kiphire, in collaboration with the NTCP Cell, Kiphire, successfully organised a two-day football tournament on 16 and 17 July 2026 at Kohri Arena, Kiphire, under the theme, “Play with Passion. Compete with Integrity. Glorify God.” The tournament aimed to promote sportsmanship, Christian fellowship, and unity among the youth of Kiphire district.
The inaugural programme was chaired by Joel Chhetri, President of the GBC Youth Ministry. Bhim Sapkota, Pastor of Gorkha Baptist Church (GBC), Kiphire, delivered the welcome address, while the invocation prayer was offered by Nusu, Pastor of Tenyimia Baptist Church, Kiphire. A special song was presented by Visa Roths.
An exhortation was delivered by Apongse, President of the Kiphire District Football Association (KDFA), who encouraged the players to uphold discipline, teamwork, integrity, and true sportsmanship while reflecting Christian values.
The programme was also addressed by Zioba T Sangtam, Dental Surgeon, who encouraged the players to pursue sports with dedication and discipline. He urged them to make sports a lifelong passion rather than remaining seasonal players and encouraged them to become role models of true sportsmanship. He also highlighted that commitment to sports can create opportunities to support their families and build successful careers through their talents.
The Guest of Honour, Shanti Gurung, Sub-Treasury Officer, Kiphire, appreciated the GBC Youth Ministry, the NTCP Cell, Kiphire, and the organising committee for successfully conducting such a meaningful tournament for the youth and people of Kiphire district. She remarked that the event was not merely a football competition but also an opportunity to strengthen fellowship among churches and promote unity through sports. She encouraged all participating players to play with discipline, respect, integrity, and a spirit of sportsmanship, regardless of the outcome of the matches.
The tournament was officially inaugurated with a ceremonial kick-off by the Guest of Honour.
A total of 11 teams participated in the two-day tournament. Following a series of exciting and closely contested matches, Phoenix FC and Abide FC advanced to the final. In the championship match, Phoenix FC defeated Abide FC 3-1 to emerge as the tournament champions, while Abide FC finished as runners-up.
The tournament concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, presentation of awards, and a group photograph with the champion team. The event was widely appreciated by participants, church leaders, football enthusiasts, and well-wishers for promoting friendship, healthy competition, Christian fellowship, and unity through sports.