GANGTOK, (IPR): The Sikkim Premier League 2024 commenced here at Paljor Stadium on Saturday under the aegis of Football Development Pvt. Ltd and Sports & Youth Affairs department, Government of Sikkim.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang officially inaugurated SPL Season 2 during a grand ceremony this afternoon.
The month-long league will feature eight teams from the six districts of Sikkim.
The Chief Minister in his brief inaugural address congratulated the organisers for hosting the second edition of SPL and thanked the sponsors for supporting the league. While extending best wishes to the participating teams, he urged the people to attend every match in the league to support the local youth initiative in Sikkim.
The Chief Minister also informed about his telephonic conversation today with Sunil Chhetri, Indian football team captain, inviting him for the final match on 4th March, to which he said he would try his best to make it.
During the event, the organizers posthumously felicitated the late respected football coach Thupden Rapgyal Bhutia. His son Tenzing Tsephel received the honor.
The opening ceremony featured performances by Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2023 winner Albert Kabo, along with local artists Monika Rai, Pritam Rai, Shisir Thatal, Divya Thapa, rapper B-hottie 88 The Sikkim Boy, and a dance carnival by DFDA. The Brass Band of West Point Senior Secondary School also showcased their talent during the ceremony.
Also present were cabinet ministers Sonam Lama and Samdup Lepcha, along with Krishna Rai, football enthusiasts and fans.
The inaugural match was played between the reigning champion Aakraman SC and Singling SC.