Bargarh-In a proud and inspiring sporting achievement, the Under-15 football team of Bargarh has etched its name in the history books by clinching the CM Trophy – 2025, defeating Bhubaneswar with a thrilling 3-2 scoreline in the final match held at the iconic Birsa Munda Stadium in Rourkela.
The tournament, jointly organized by the Sports & Youth Services Department and the Football Association of Odisha, witnessed participation from over 6,000 young footballers representing every district of Odisha. A total of 858 matches were played, making it one of the largest grassroots football competitions in the state.
Bargarh’s resounding victory was not only a result of skill but also of sheer determination, teamwork, and community spirit. Led by captain Sourav Kumar Bhoi, the 25-member squad, under the expert guidance of Head Coach Ramakant Dash and Assistant Coach Tikeshwar Kharsel, showcased exceptional talent and discipline throughout the competition.
In recognition of this momentous achievement, a grand felicitation ceremony was organized by the district administration under the leadership of District Collector and Magistrate Aditya Goyal. The celebration was attended by a host of dignitaries and sports enthusiasts, including District Sports Officer Ajay Kumar Pattnayak, Vice President of District Athletics Association Jugal Prasad Singh, Secretary Kishore Kumar Mishra, FAO Vice President Rabi Narayan Panda, Athletics Secretary Hardeep Singh, Football Secretary S.K. Sabdar, Dr. Subhranshu Shekhar Mohapatra, Cricket Secretary Amiya Bhushan Sahu, Outdoor Games Secretary Suresh Dash, and Council Members Pradeep Sahu and Mahendra Dash were present, along with former players Gyana Ranjan Pujari, Atish Panda, Pradeep Pradhan, Sachidananda Panda, Prasanta Jena, and Bikash Biswal and other prominent sports officials and former players graced the occasion, sharing heartfelt words that motivated the young champions and reminded everyone of the district’s rich sports legacy.
The victory is a significant milestone for Bargarh district, not only uplifting local pride but also aligning with the Odisha Government’s “Sports Development Vision 2029”, aimed at nurturing young talent from rural areas and preparing them for national and international representation.
Collector Aditya Goyal, in his address, emphasized, “This triumph is not just a trophy—it’s a symbol of rural potential, perseverance, and the power of sport in shaping the future. The Bargarh team has become a beacon of hope for thousands of aspiring athletes across villages. We are committed to creating more opportunities like this to help them reach their full potential.”
The CM Trophy 2025 will be remembered not just for Bargarh’s win, but for the spirit of Odisha’s youth that it celebrated—a spirit that refuses to bow to limitations, that finds unity in diversity, and that rises to shine when given the right platform.
FAO Vice President Rabi Narayan Panda said, as the cheers still echo through the hearts of Bargarh residents, one message is clear: “This is just the beginning. The champions of today are the stars of tomorrow”.
