The recently-launched tournament is the beginning of a new dawn for football players in India’s mountainous state of Sikkim. Here’s how it all started!
In Sikkim — a small state in India’s mountainous northeast — football is more than a game. It is a way of life in the state, which borders China and Nepal. Deeply-rooted in the cultural matrix of Sikkim, football is no less than an elixir for life here. No wonder, the state now has a premier league to its credit. And, it’s the Sikkim Premier League (SPL). The state, where even the narrow alleys are dotted with kids dribbling the ball, is now taking the sport to a new high with the launch of SPL earlier this year in January.
The league was envisioned by Sikkim’s Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay, who felt the need to revitalise football and club culture in Sikkim. His objective was to establish an enjoyable and top-notch football league that captivates football enthusiasts in Sikkim and enhances the playing-level and professionalism among players and clubs.
Five players from Sikkim, inspired by the SPL’s vision and mission, returned to the sports—but in new roles—and formed the Football Development Private Limited (FDPL). It is a joint venture that aims to strengthen Sikkim’s development football. The FDPL vows to work towards the hashtag #togetherforsikkimfootball and is committed to support the SPL and enhance football development in Sikkim. The five founding members are Nirmal Chetri, Nim Tshering Lepcha, Sanju Pradhan, Robin Gurung, and Bikash Jairu. They are the pillars of Sikkim Premier League who have tackled all challenges with their vision and execution of the league.
Platform for local talents
The SPL’s mission is to provide a franchise-style level football competition that enables a stable income to local players and financial sustainability to the local clubs. The matches are all played during the weekends to reach out to the masses as well as well-wishers who can support the players and teams. Focus was placed on young players from Sikkim this time around, with a view to expand their horizons and bring more stakeholders into the fold in the future. The ultimate aim is to ensure that players have ample opportunities to showcase their skills and earn better rewards. The local players in particular are expected to benefit from this initiative, while the teams themselves are expected to experience growth as a result. The long-term goal is to ensure that the sport in Sikkim flourishes and achieves greater heights.
Aim to create pool of Sikkimese players
One of the primary objectives of the SPL is to encourage and facilitate the masses to start playing the sport of football and also produce a large pool of Sikkimese players and stars for the Indian national team, the Hero ISL and the I-league. With the league in place, young talent can now aspire to play professionally and build a career in football. This is a significant development for the state as it will not only produce better players but also create more opportunities for the local youth.
Moreover, the SPL also aims to improve standards of administration, governance, and marketing. By providing an avenue for local businesses, service providers, income generation and employment, the league will not only help uplift the football culture but also contribute to the state’s economic growth.
‘8 teams, 6 districts & 1 champion’
The motto for the league is to have “8 teams from 6 districts and 1 champion.” The tournament kicked off in January 2023. Initially, it was contemplated to organise a six-team tournament to align with the number of districts. But, later it was decided to expand it to eight teams to provide more players with the opportunities. Consequently, the founding members brought in two more teams, each from Gangtok and Namchi to participate in the tournament. The teams of SPL are one team represented each of the Soreng (Singling FC), Pakyong (Pakyong District FC), Mangan (Vajra North United FC), and Gyalshing (Brothers FC) districts, while two teams were selected from both Gangtok (Akraman FC and Sikkim Dragons FC) and Namchi (Sinalchu FC and Red Panda FC) districts. “This shows that SPL is such a great platform for youngsters to showcase their talent along with being a perfect model for other states to look up to in the field of football,” said experts.
Two venues were selected for the two-month long tournament—the Paljor Stadium in Gangtok and the Baichung Bhutia Stadium in Namchi. A group of 30 players, currently playing in various regions across the country, were chosen by the organisers. The eight teams were given the chance to pick their players from this group. Adding on, there were certain restrictions in place for team composition. Specifically, each team was allowed to have a maximum of four players from outside the state and only three foreign players. Additionally, all players under the age of 19 years in each team must be local to the area.
Insights from the founding members
When asked about the story behind the emergence of Sikkim Premier League, Nirmal Chetri who is a former Indian player and one of the five founding blocks of the league, said: “When we five boys talked about upliftment of football in the state and CM (Chief Minister) sir shared the same dream as to how to bring club culture in football. That is how we started working on the project and we approached many people, including authorities in Hero ISL and Mizoram Premier League and we learnt from their insightful stories and planned accordingly”
As regards to the teams, it is evident that the clubs did not survive in the realm of Sikkim football and a majority of the present teams are novel. Therefore, the Board of Directors approached individuals and investors who harboured an ardent fervour for the sport. The SPL core members extended invitations to them, organised meetings, and explicated their vision. They were convinced by their proposal, and hence, the process was initiated. “Our main aim is to provide top-class opportunities to young players along with financial support so that they can dwell on it and make the state and the country proud at the highest-level,” said Robin Gurung, another former Indian player from Sikkim and one of the founding members.
Sanju Pradhan, who is also a founding member and former player, disclosed that there are plans to establish a league for women with six teams similar to the SPL. Additionally, he stated that the company intended to concentrate on development right from the grassroot level by holding weekend and winter camps, with the top 25 to 30 players from the SPL, forming a side to participate in pre-season ‘friendly matches’ against ISL and I-League teams. “In order to honour old players and recognise current footballers, the firm also intends to launch the Sikkim Football Awards as an annual celebration. Along with that, we want to host a knockout competition for all eight teams in the north-eastern region’s league champions,” he added
‘SPL turns a model for other states’
The launch of the SPL has renewed enthusiasm and excitement to the state’s football community. It has given local players a platform to showcase their skills and prove their worth. The league’s franchise-style structure has also allowed clubs to build their fan base and revenue streams, leading to financial stability and sustainability. The SPL has already become a source of pride and inspiration for the state, with people from all walks of life coming together to support their teams and the league.
The SPL has not only revitalised the football culture in Sikkim but also created a sense of community and togetherness. It has given rise to new talent, improved playing standards, and enhanced professionalism in the state. The league’s success has also attracted attention from across the country, and it is fast becoming a model for other states to emulate.
In conclusion, the Sikkim Premier League is not just a football league; it is a movement that has brought about a positive change in the state’s football landscape. It is a testament to the power of community and the role that sports can play in promoting development and growth. With the support of the people and the state government, the SPL is poised to become a significant contributor to Sikkim’s overall progress and development, said the organisers.
Know the founders
Overcoming barriers
The journey of a footballer is often a bumpy ride with numerous obstacles and challenges to overcome. Such has been the journey for Robin Gurung. Robin, a retired Indian player, began his career in 2002, when he moved to the football hostel. However, at the time, he admits that he didn’t have much focus, and simply played for the love of the game. Gradually, Robin set goals and targets, determined to make a name for himself and his family. He began to work hard on his skills. In 2007, he started his professional career with ONGC. But, it was not an easy ride. He did not know much about playing professional football and also faced language barriers. However, with perseverance and hard work, Robin overcame these challenges and soon became a key player for the team. Looking back at his career, Robin feels a sense of satisfaction and pride.
Passion tale
Hailing from the tiny town of Melli, located between Bengal and Sikkim, Nirmal Chetri became an exceptional defender. From a young age, Nirmal would often be seen kicking the ball by the riverside, honing his skills. His elder brother, Lt. Rohit Kumar Chetri, was his inspiration and idol. He would watch him polish his boots and prepare his gear. Years passed, and the young man’s love for the game only grew stronger. In 2000, he got his first big break when he gave a trial for the Sikkim Common Initiative, #SearchForMoreBaichung scheme. The following year, he cleared another trial at the Namchi Sports Hostel. Nirmal worked hard and dedicated himself to his craft, and soon, he moved to the Sports Academy in Gangtok. In 2006, he participated in the Governor’s Cup, a prestigious event organised by the Sikkim Football Association, where many top teams from the region competed. Nirmal sees it as a blessing to play alongside clubs like Air India Services, who had won the Santosh Trophy, and the National Team of Nepal. It was here that he caught the attention of Air India coach Bimal Gosh. Nirmal and his teammate Sanju were scouted and recruited to play in the 2006 National Football Championship under the Sikkim window.
Bikash Jairu is an Indian professional footballer who has carved a niche for himself in the sport. Jairu, who is from Gyalshing, West Sikkim, was accepted into the Namchi Sports Hostel as part of the government of Sikkim’s ‘Search for More Bhaichungs’ initiative. Later, he relocated to the Sports Academy of Sikkim in Gangtok, where he graduated in 2008 and immediately accepted a job offer from ONGC. He relocated to Shillong and joined Rangdajied United. After playing there for a season, he signed with Mumbai Tigers, where he enjoyed a successful year and scored several goals for the squad in the 2013 I-League 2nd Division. At United Sports Club, Jairu established himself as a talented midfielder who possessed excellent dribbling and passing skills and played for the club for three seasons. Looking back, the footballer is immensely grateful to all the coaches who taught him everything about football. Jairu also believes that without their help, he wouldn’t have been able to achieve his dream of playing at the highest level of football.
‘Football teaches discipline’
Football teaches you discipline, perseverance and most importantly, the value of hard work. This is what ex- India player Sanju Pradhan believes in. For Sanju, it all started from his small village of Sombaria, located in West Sikkim. He used to work as a ball boy in his village, watching the players closely and dreaming of playing football professionally someday. Sanju was selected to join the Namchi Sports Academy in 1999. The Namchi Sports Academy provided Sanju with a direction. He spent six years in hostels: five in Namchi Sports Academy and another at Palzor Stadium for the State Sports Academy. During this time, Sanju received immense support from his coaches. Sanju has represented India at U-14s and also played in the Subrata Cup. However, one of the most memorable moments and a turning point in his football career was representing the Academy in the All India Governor’s Cup. The competition had some of the best teams in the tournament, including Air India from Mumbai. While playing against Air India, Sanju scored a goal m, which impressed the coach, and he signed the young footballer from Sikkim for Air India in 2006.
The final match
Aakraman FC lifts the trophy
Gangtok: At the end of a pulsating match, Sikkim Aakraman FC lifted the champion’s trophy during the concluding ceremony of Sikkim Premier League held on April 8 at Paljor Stadium in the state’s capital city of Gangtok. The team recorded a 3-1 victory by defeating Singling FC.
The match’s first half was a closely contested affair with both teams showcasing their skills and abilities on the field. Despite being well-placed, Aakraman FC was unable to turn its chances into goals. Singling FC, on the other hand, was content to sit back and defend, hoping to chase the opponents during counter-attack. Breaking the monotony, Aakraman FC’s Mayo Lepcha converted a penalty to give his team a lead of 1-0.
Right when Aakraman seemed to have control over its opponent, Juma Balinya of Singling scored an equaliser at the stroke of half-time to take the score 1-1 at the mid stage.
The second half saw Aakraman FC coming out with renewed energy and determination. They continued to dominate possession and create chances, and were finally rewarded when striker Dewashish George scored a superb goal in the 65th minute. Singling FC failed to convert any minimal chance provided to them by the Aakraman defense.
Both the teams pushed forward just as the clock was ticking. It was Aakraman FC who struck the decisive blow with Dewashish George scoring a stunning goal in the 85th minute to put an end to any remaining hopes that Singling had. Singling FC fought valiantly to capitalise on any opportunity, but were unable to break through the Aakraman defense.
When the referee blew the final whistle at the end of the 90th minute, it was Aakraman FC who emerged victorious, winning the match 3-1. They were delighted to be crowned the inaugural champions of Sikkim Premier League.
Achievers
- Champions — Aakraman SC
- Runners’ Up— Singling FC
- Hero of the Tournament — Juma Balinya of Singling FC
- Emerging Player — Rizu Limboo of Singling FC
- Man of the Match—Dewashish George of Aakraman FC
- Best coach— Tashi Norbu
All’s well & ends well!
A gala ceremony with the state’s Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang attending it as the chief guest marked the end of SPL 2023
Gangtok: Curtains came down on the Sikkim Premier League (SPL) on April 8. The champions were crowned in a glitzy closing ceremony.
Prem Singh Tamang, Chief Minister of Sikkim, attended the closing ceremony as well as witnessed the final match at Paljor Stadium as the chief guest. The final was played between Aakraman SC and Singling FC, with the former recording a 3-1 victory to claim the title of the champion. The event was also attended by the president of All India Football Federation (AIFF) Kalyan Chaubey and president of SFA Menla Ethenpa.
Several well-known artistes, including Tshering Leezum Bhutia, Remanti Rai, Melina Rai, Milan Newar, Ritu Riba, Jetsen D. Lama, Thupden Bhutia and Bhanu Gurung performed at the closing ceremony. Besides, Speaker of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly, Arun Upreti, Deputy Speaker of the SLA, Sangay Lepcha, Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs Department, KN Lepcha, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, Political Secretary to the HCM, Jacob Khaling, Advisors, Secretaries, concerned government officials, Board of Directors Football Private Development Limited and football lovers from across the state were also present.
The event started off with the five founding members greeting all the guests of honours in traditional style. Soon, the fans witnessed a mesmerising cultural event where stars like Ritu Riba, Jetsen Lama, Tshering Bhutia etc along with stars from around the region like Melina Rai enthralled the football lovers. The cultural event ended with the dance performance by a total of 121 artistes in a synchronised manner.
During the presentation ceremony, the runners-up trophy was handed over to Singling FC, who had put up a strong fight throughout the league. They were awarded a runners’ up prize money of Rs 10 lakh. The players were given a rousing applause from the fans as they received their medals and trophy from the distinguished guests.
Juma Balinya of Singling FC was awarded the Hero of the Tournament with a prize money of Rs 50,000. Juma had scored 9 goals in 9 matches. His Singling teammate Rizu Limboo was awarded the ‘Emerging Player’ of the match.
Aakraman FC captain and goalkeeper Nimdup Lepcha was awarded with the ‘Golden Gloves’ for his brilliant work right throughout the tournament. The Man of the Match award was given to Dewashish George from Aakraman FC for his two goals. For inspiring Sikkim Aakraman FC in their golden run to the maiden SPL title, Tashi Norbu was declared the best coach award.
Aakraman FC was presented with the winner’s trophy. The players and coaching staff were ecstatic as they lifted the trophy and celebrated their victory. They were awarded with the winners’ prize money of Rs 20 lakh.
The ceremony also featured speeches by the league officials and special guests, who praised the players and organisers for putting up a successful and well-managed league. The fans were thanked for their support and enthusiasm, and the sponsors were acknowledged for their contributions in making the league a success.
The closing ceremony ended with a spectacular fireworks display, which lit up the sky and added to the festive atmosphere. It was a fitting end to an unforgettable tournament, and everyone present left with memories that would last a lifetime. The league came to an end when the Chief Minister declared that the SPL was officially closed.
[/ihc-hide-content]
