BOSCO NOVA- Celebrating Don Bosco
BOSCO NOVA, a two-day football tournament, was organized by BREADS Bangalore in association with IYDC Kerala, IDS Allapuzha, Don Bosco Bhavan Mannuthy, Don Bosco Sports Hub Mannuthy, in connection with the Feast of Don Bosco for the children of the Sports Hubs and Community Sports Hubs under the Don Bosco Sports for Change Project. The programme brought together young participants in a spirit of celebration, healthy competition, and holistic development, reflecting Don Bosco’s enduring commitment to the wellbeing of children and youth.
The first day of the event, held on 25 January, featured football matches in three age categories: Under–12, Under–14, and Under–17. Around 600 children, including girls, actively participated in the tournament, demonstrating remarkable enthusiasm, teamwork, and sportsmanship. The winners and runners-up in each category were honoured with trophies presented by the Honourable Minister for Revenue, Government of Kerala, Shri K. Rajan, who served as the chief guest. In addition to the team awards, individual trophies were presented for Best Goalkeeper, Best Defender, Best Forward, and Top Scorer, recognising outstanding talent and encouraging excellence among the young athletes. The day concluded with a vibrant musical night, which provided a joyful space for relaxation and celebration after the competitive matches.
The second day, 26 January, began with a Holy Mass for Catholic participants, while children from other faith backgrounds took part in a spiritual animation session. This inclusive approach ensured that the spiritual significance of the feast was shared in a respectful and meaningful manner. The day continued with three structured developmental sessions designed to nurture life skills, values, and personal growth. Through motivational and interactive activities, the children were encouraged to build confidence, discipline, leadership, and a sense of responsibility towards themselves and society.
A key objective of BOSCO NOVA, in line with the Don Bosco Sports for Change Project, is to promote sports as a positive alternative to substance abuse and other harmful influences affecting young people. Engaging children in structured sports activities provides them with purpose, mentorship, and a supportive peer network. Sports help channel their energy constructively, strengthen emotional resilience, and build decision-making skills, all of which are essential in resisting negative behaviours such as drug use.
The event also embodied Don Bosco’s educational vision, founded on the principles of Reason, Religion, and Loving Kindness. In essence, BOSCO NOVA was not merely a football tournament but a meaningful platform for character formation, social inclusion, and community building. By combining sports, values, and mentorship, the programme carried forward Don Bosco’s mission of shaping young people into responsible, confident, and socially committed individuals.
