Mawiong Parish Triumphs Over Pynthorumkhrah 4-2 in Football Tournament Opener

Shillong, India Aug 29, 2026 ALN: Mawiong Parish began their campaign in the Under-35 Inter-Parish Football Tournament on a winning note, defeating Pynthorumkhrah Parish 4–2 at Madan Heh, Phudmuri, on Saturday. This tournament marks an important event in the local sports calendar, not only for its competitive spirit but also for its community-building aspects.

The tournament is organised by the Synjuk Ki Seng Rangbah Katholik, Shillong Archdiocese Zone I, an organisation that plays a significant role in fostering community engagement through various activities, including sports. The event features teams from six parishes—Mawlai, Mawiong, Mawtawar, Mawprem, Mawkhar, and Pynthorumkhrah—highlighting the unity and camaraderie among the different communities within the Shillong Archdiocese.

This year, the competition is being held in two categories: Under-35 and 40 years and above, allowing a wider range of participants to engage in the sport. The inclusion of the older age category reflects a growing recognition of the importance of sports in promoting health and well-being among all age groups, as well as encouraging intergenerational interaction.

The inaugural programme was graced by the presence of Jim Reeves Marweiñ, IAS, who attended as the chief guest. In his address to the gathering, he highlighted the organisation’s motto, “Ieid, Shakri bad Ïalap” (Love, Serve and Evangelise). This motto encapsulates the values that the tournament aims to promote, emphasizing the importance of love and service in community life. Marweiñ further stressed the vital role of men as protectors and pillars of their families and society, underscoring the tournament's significance not just as a sporting event, but as a platform for social values and moral education.

In the opening Under-35 match, Mawiong produced a strong attacking display to secure a 4–2 victory. The performance of the players was commendable, showcasing their skills and teamwork. Aldo Max Nengnong (No. 2) emerged as a standout player, scoring twice for Mawiong, demonstrating his prowess on the field. Additionally, S. Syiem (No. 6) and Dapjorki Dkhar contributed one goal each, reflecting the team's collective effort and strategy. Such performances not only contribute to the team's success but also inspire younger players in the community.

Pynthorumkhrah, despite the loss, put up a valiant effort with goals from Aibha Mynsong (No. 9) and Donald Nongsiej (No. 11). Their performance indicates a competitive spirit and resilience, which are essential qualities in sports. The ability to score two goals against a strong opponent like Mawiong shows that Pynthorumkhrah has the potential to bounce back in future matches.

Before kick-off, Rev. Fr. Telesphoros Nonglang, Parish Priest of Mawlai, offered the opening prayer and blessed the tournament. This ritual not only sets a positive tone for the competition but also reinforces the spiritual aspect of the event, highlighting how sports can be intertwined with faith and community values.

The inaugural programme was also attended by Synjuk president Stenis Nongkynrih, secretary Onnestar Kharbani, other office-bearers, and members of the participating parishes. Their presence signifies the importance of community support in organizing such events, as well as the commitment of the church to promote sports as a means of fostering community ties and encouraging healthy lifestyles.

The tournament is expected to continue over the coming weeks, with matches scheduled that will bring together not only players but also supporters from various parishes. This gathering of communities fosters a sense of belonging and unity, which is particularly important in today’s fast-paced world. The competitive nature of the tournament, coupled with the spirit of sportsmanship, will likely serve to strengthen relationships among parishioners, making the event a highlight of the local sporting calendar.

As the tournament progresses, it will be interesting to observe how teams adapt and strategize against one another, as well as the development of individual players. The outcomes of these matches could influence community dynamics, with victories often celebrated as collective achievements. Furthermore, the tournament serves as a reminder of the importance of youth engagement in sports, providing young people with opportunities to develop their skills, promote teamwork, and foster a healthy lifestyle.

The implications of such events extend beyond the field; they contribute to the overall well-being of the community, promoting physical health, social interaction, and a sense of identity among participants. The Under-35 Inter-Parish Football Tournament, therefore, stands as a testament to the power of sports in bringing people together, instilling values, and celebrating community spirit.