2nd division I league- 2011 to start from 2nd July

SIKKIM,GANGTOK, JUNE 28. The I-League matches for public are schedule to be held from 2nd of July 2011 till 27th August at Paljor Stadium. It is hoped that the spectators will take advantage of this and enjoy the game and the local players are even all set to showcase their talents in the turf. Sikkim Football Association (SFA) is all set to begin the 2nd Division I-League football matches after a long gap.
A total of 12 teams have already confirmed their participation in the 2nd Division Football matches which appears to be a very good response and interest shown by the whole state informed the Deputy Director (Coaching) for Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Mr. Thupden Rapgyal to Sikkim Mail.
Adding more Mr. Rapgyal stated that, a total of 12 teams divided into two groups six in each group will be playing the league matches and the group (A) consists of teams like GVSFA, Central Pandam, L. Arithang FC Gangtok, FC United Jorethang, United Bros FC Rabangla, Young Star FC Bojoghari Gangtok, Tibetan YC Gangtok whereas in group (B) are, Brotherhood FC Ranipool, Rising Young Star FC Middle Arithang, Bhaley Dara FC Naya Bazaar West Sikkim, Tathengchen FA Gangtok, Siniolchu Namchi, Denzong Boys Junior Gangtok.
Mr. Rapgyal also added that there are teams taking part in the league who has already performed in earlier matches where as there is none from North District, as they have already qualified for the 1st division League. The first match will be played between United Sikkim Football Club (USFC) V/s Central Pandam  and added that the league matches will be only played on Saturday, Sunday and during the government holidays.
When Sikkim Mail reporter questioned about the new astro turf laid in Paljor Stadium, Mr. Rapgyal said that ‘though the turf is maintenance free, something has to be done to keep it proper and apt for playing game’. Hence, every Friday the technical hands who are engaged in maintaining the turf here in the stadium will be working to check and make the turf damage free too as the ground is being used by the school children and other players frequently the damages may occur hampering the league added Mr. Rapgyal.
Furthermore when interacted with footballer, Mr. Khitup Tongden Lepcha Youngstar Club Gangtok  shares  his experience playing on astro turf , said that it is his first game on artificial turf and he wants to gain the experience of an international standard. It has always been his dream to play in turf and this year his dreams are turning into reality. He is really excited to go ahead with the upcoming 2nd Division I-League football match and hopes of performing his best.
While talking about the Young Star FC which he represents, Mr. Lepcha informed that the club is not funded by anyone at present and members are managing the finance on their own and supporting the club to somehow sustain considering the future players of state.


Courtesy :  sikkimmail