The National Balika Mandal Premvati Cup was held on Saturday 6 July 2013 at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London. This year’s tournament marked the 15th anniversary of the competition – and the atmosphere was fittingly vibrant as enthusiastic girls were encouraged by proud parents and friends.
The day began with the traditional lighting of divas for the opening ceremony at 10am. Children from across the UK were welcomed with their teams in a pre-tournament parade, as banners from their respective towns and cities were held aloft in celebration.
The teams were divided into three age groups: 6- to 8-year-olds, 9- to 11-year-olds, and 12- to 14-year-olds. All teams played with great effort and the team spirit and unity was clearly visible through the cheering. The sunny weather added to the excitement and energy as the games became more intense in the semi-finals and finals.
The results in each of the age groups were as follows:
Age Group
|
Winners
|
Runners Up
|
Top Goal Scorer
|
|
6-8 |
Saturday |
Leicester |
Bhakti (Leicester) |
|
9-11 |
Leicester A |
Saturday 2 |
Dhrishni (Leicester) |
|
12-14 |
London A |
Leicester B |
Janki(London A) |
The trophies and prizes were presented in a colourful closing ceremony held on the steps of the Mandir. This year’s prizes included an award for the best “side line squad”, which was presented to Leicester.
It was a highly enjoyable and memorable event, in which the girls exemplified great sportsmanship and team spirit amidst a wonderful atmosphere of camaraderie.