TAWANG, 11 Sep: The 2nd edition of the Monyul Super League (MSL), organised by the Tawang District Sports Association (TDSA), with support from Durex - The Birds and Bees Talk and other sponsors, commenced at Gyalwa Tsangyang Gyatso High Altitude Sports Stadium here on Friday.

Being held under the theme 'One League, One Dream, One Monyul', the league brings together eight teams, with four teams each from Tawang and West Kameng districts, providing a competitive platform for young footballing talent from across the Monyul region.

The participating teams are Khalaktang Rupa FC, Mon Dirang FC, Thrizino Buragaon FC, Tawang United FC, Dhagpa Pangchhen United, Bomdila FC, Rhebla Gangsum FC and Shyo Sporting Club.

Padma Shri awardee the 14th Thegtse Rinpoche, Tawang MLA Namgey Tsering, Sports Special Secretary Akshat Kaushal, and Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo, among others, attended the inaugural function.

The inaugural programme began with a solemn tribute to late IAS officer Sang Phuntsok, in remembrance of his service and contribution.

Addressing the participants, District Sports OfficerSange Tsering said that the MSL has emerged as an important platform for identifying, encouraging and nurturing talented young sportspersons of the Monyul region. He said that the TDSA has been working dedicatedly towards the promotion and development of sports in Tawang district.

He appreciated the team owners and managers for encouraging young people to take up sports and expressed hope that, in the years to come, the MSLwould grow beyond being merely a football competition and develop into a movement that guides the youths towards discipline, teamwork and all-round development.

Kaushal in his address highlighted the unifying power of sports. He observed that people may come from different communities and different parts of the country, but sports have the unique ability to bring everyone together.

Referring to the Tawang Marathon 2026 theme song, which was launched on the occasion, he encouraged everyone to participate in the upcoming marathon. Wishing the organisers and participating teams a successful MSL, he said that "it is a privilege to be present in the special and sacred land of Tawang."

The gathering was also treated to a captivating musical performance by Arunachal Idol winner Tsering Samdrup, adding colour and energy to the inaugural ceremony.

The 14th Thegtse Rinpoche bestowed his blessings upon the players and wished all the participating teams good luck. He expressed happiness at witnessing the enthusiasm of the young participants and the development of sporting infrastructure in Tawang, observing that the youths of the region are moving forward shoulder to shoulder with their counterparts elsewhere.

He also appreciated the organisers for providing a constructive platform for youth engagement, and expressed gratitude for the arrangements made for the successful conduct of the league.

The inaugural ceremony was followed by the opening match between Khalaktang Rupa FC and Shyo Sporting Club. The spectators witnessed an exciting 90 minutes of competitive football, with Shyo Sporting Club emerging victorious by 3-2.

The Monyul Super League seeks to promote sporting excellence while strengthening unity, friendship and a shared identity among the youths of the Monyul region. (DIPRO)