GANGTOK, : Sikkim Aakraman Sporting Club
officially unveiled their squad and kits for 2025-26 season of the Sikkim
Premier League.
The programme commenced with
the felicitation of guests, which included ministers Pintso Namgyal Lepcha and
N.B. Dahal, and SKM Youth Wing president Lakpa Moktan.
Minister Pintso Lepcha extended his best wishes to the players and
management of the Sikkim Aakraman Sporting Club. He stressed the significance
of sportsmanship and perseverance in the game, noting that while winning and
losing are inherent aspects of any sport, what truly matters is the ability of
players to demonstrate dedication, unity, and discipline both on and off the
field. "Football is more than just a sport, it’s a stage where players can
showcase not only their talent but also their character," he remarked. He
encouraged the team to remain grounded, maintain confidence, foster teamwork, and
never underestimate any opponent.
He further urged the players to
aspire for national and international success. “It is my sincere hope that our
youth will one day represent Sikkim with pride on the national and global
stage.”
Minister N.B. Dahal reflected
on football’s global reach and enduring popularity, calling it the most beloved
sport in the world. He highlighted the complexity of running a professional
football team, noting the extensive human resources required including players,
coaches, dieticians, physiotherapists and technical staff. He acknowledged the
financial challenges that football clubs often face, particularly in smaller
states, but praised the unwavering commitment of Chief Minister PS Golay and
generous sponsors who continue to support sporting development despite limited
revenue generation.
Sonam Gyaltsen Tenzing, the
club’s treasurer, recounted the remarkable journey of Sikkim Aakraman Sporting
Club. “The club was founded in 2010 by four friends who shared a common dream
to promote and develop sports in Sikkim,” he shared.
Starting from the third tier of
the Sikkim football league system, the club quickly rose through the ranks,
capturing the Sikkim League A-Division title in 2016 and going on to win the
inaugural edition of the Sikkim Premier League in 2023.
But Aakraman’s impact has not been limited to football alone. In 2023, the club formed the Sikkim Aakraman Women’s Cricket Team, which went on to win the Women’s A Division cricket tournament in its debut season (2022). Beyond sport, the club has made consistent contributions to social causes and community welfare initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to holistic development and civic responsibility.
The highly anticipated moment of the event came with the official unveiling of the club’s home and away kits for the 2025–26 season. The vibrant new designs are a fresh representation of the club’s identity and aspirations, embodying unity, strength and ambition.
The 30-member squad introduced
for the upcoming season reflects a thoughtful blend of regional and
international talent. In addition to a strong local core, the squad features
two international players from Ghana, along with four players hailing from
other Indian states, namely Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and
West Bengal. The diverse roster is expected to bring tactical variety and
cultural richness to the team as they embark on the new season.
