Meghalaya’s U-17 Football Team Heads to Paris for International Tournament

Shillong, March 22 : The U-17 football team of Myngken Christian Higher Secondary School, Bhoirymbong, received a warm send-off today as they prepare to represent India at the 2nd Edition of the Indo-French Football Tournament in Paris, France.

The team, runners-up of the Subroto Mukherjee Cup (U-17) Competition, will be the sole representatives of India in the tournament, scheduled to take place from March 24 to 30, 2025. They will compete against four French teams in the same age category.

Hamlet Dohling, Adviser to the Chief Minister, expressed his delight at the team’s opportunity to play at the international level. He emphasized the importance of grassroots development in Meghalaya’s sporting success and urged the players to maintain discipline and represent their country with pride.

Dikki D. Shira, Director of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, highlighted the valuable exposure the team will gain, not only in international football but also in experiencing a different culture and way of life.

The team’s participation in the tournament is fully sponsored by the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs. The touring party consists of 16 players (including two goalkeepers), one coach, one manager, and a state representative. The team will also have the unique opportunity to train with Olympic Lyonnais, a prominent French football club.

The team’s invitation to the tournament is a testament to their commendable performance in the Subroto Mukherjee Cup held last year, organized by the Subroto Mukherjee Sports Education Society.