Heavy rains in Ba on Thursday didn’t dampen the spirits of football players and fans at the opening day of the 96th TISI Sangam Convention. Despite some challenges from the weather, all scheduled matches were completed through the diligent efforts of the organizing committee.
Upendra Gounder, chairman of the Games Committee, highlighted that weather conditions were a primary concern but reported that the first day’s games went off without a hitch. “We had to rule out one ground due to the wet condition, making it unplayable,” he explained. The team is now actively searching for a substitute venue to ensure the continued smooth running of the tournament.
In spite of the slippery conditions, participants showcased impressive performances. Notable outcomes included a 1-1 draw between North America TIV and Victoria TIV, an overwhelming 8-0 victory for Middlemore TIV over Vatiyaka TIV, and a solid 4-0 win for Varoko TIV against Waitakere TIV. Hamilton TIV also dominated their matchup against Sydney TIV with a 6-0 triumph. In the Masters division, Malolo Masters secured a 4-0 victory over Nadroga Masters.
Day Two commenced with defending champions Nadi TIV making a strong start, winning 2-0 against Valley TIV, setting a promising tone for their title defense. Other sports, including netball and volleyball, are set to kick off today, enhancing the diversity of events at this vibrant convention, which runs until Monday.
This year’s convention features a total of 74 teams, combining local and international participants from regions including New Zealand, Australia, the USA, and Canada. Matches are taking place across various divisions, emphasizing the strong community spirit and the cultural heritage of the participating teams. Organizers anticipate attendance to reach between 4,000 to 5,000 people, a testament to the deep-rooted passion for sports within the community.
Overall, the TISI Sangam Convention not only celebrates athletic competition but also reinforces connections among the South Indian community, showcasing their love for sports and cultural pride. As teams continue to compete, there is a hopeful atmosphere as everyone looks forward to an action-packed weekend filled with football, excitement, and community bonding.
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