Abu Dhabi: Mangalore Konkans KSSM Throwball Champions
by Oswald M D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network- Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, Jan 22 : Mangalore Konkans - Dubai, UAE’s top Throwball Team won second year in a row the prestigious Koosamma Shambu Shetty Memorial Trophy (Open to All) in a spectacular manner at the Abu Dhabi Indian School premises this evening.
The thrilling final encounter between Bunts Dubai and Mangalore Konkans was indeed breathtaking and was played with lots of stamina and passion. It was one of the best finals ever played so far in this prestigious tournament since its inception. It was a nail biting tournament with ups and downs, which was nerve-racking, thoroughly enjoyed by the spectators.
The tournament was played on league basis. Each group consisted of four teams. The winners with highest points from each group were selected for the Semi Finals. The League level and Semi Finals were played with only one game for regular 21 points. The final was with best of three for regular 15 points.
The Mangalore Konkans proved their superiority over the other participating teams with their team game and discipline and established themselves as the undisputed champions of UAE. They grabbed the trophy once again this year too, as they were the winners of the Koosamma Shambu Shetty Memorial trophy last year.
The Prestigious Koosamma Shambu Shetty Memorial Ladies Throw Ball Tournament is held every year in the month of January, in memory of Mrs. Koosamma Shambu Shetty Mother of Padmashree Dr.B.R.Shetty of NMC Group. The tournament is becoming popular year after year since its inception in 1989. Several teams participate in this prestigious tournament and is played in a friendly ambiance.
This year there were 7 teams from various Emirates who participated in the tournament for the coveted trophy. The teams included Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha, Abu Dhabi, K C O, Abu Dhabi, Mangalore Konkans – Dubai, Jashan - Dubai, Dubai Bunts, Kanarites - Dubai and United Stars – Dubai.
All the participating teams played exciting games in their encounters vying for the top place.
Earlier in the morning the tournament was declared open by Padmashree Dr. B. R. Shetty and his wife Dr.(Mrs) Chandrakumari BR Shetty by symbolic passing the throw ball. The inaugural match was played between K.C.O. - Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha, Abu Dhabi.
During the inaugural ceremony three veterans were honoured with Shawls and Mementos for their service towards this tournament, namely Gilbert Aranha of Mangalore Konkans, Balakrishna Salian of Jashan and Belady Jayanth Kumar Shetty of Bunts Dubai.
The success of the tournament goes mainly due to the extraordinary efforts of veteran Sarvotham Shetty – President of Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha, whose untiring dedication and love for the game has gained affection of large number of people. Sarvotham who is a popular figure in UAE and known for his simplicity and vigour was instrumental for the tremendous success of this exciting tournament. He was ably assisted by his dedicated Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha Committee members.
The well organized and keenly contested tournament with discipline and sportsmen spirit by participating teams should be commended.
The prize distribution was held at the Abu Dhabi Indian School premises attended by large crowd. Richard D’Souza – Treasurer of Abu Dhabi Indian School spoke on the occasion applauding and appreciating the efforts of Dr. B. R. Shetty in encouraging sports for the love of his mother. He also wished that the game may be spread all over by more teams participating and attaining an international status. B.R Shetty thanked and appreciated the participating team for their fair play and sporting spirit.
Lunch was served for the participating teams and the spectators – Courtesy Dr. B. R. Shetty and his family.
The final Result were as follows:
Semi Finals – Mangalore Konkans – Dubai Defeated Jashan - Dubai
Bunts Dubai Defeated Kanarites - Dubai
Finals : Mangalore Konkans – Dubai Defeated Bunts Dubai
Other Winners :
Best Service : Jane Aranha
Best Defence : Latha Santosh Bhandary
Best Striker : Shashi Shetty
All Rounder : Nancy Quadros
It should be appreciated that the tournament was well organized and concluded without any controversy. The spectators encouraged all participating teams by cheering and applauding, thoroughly enjoying themselves. Kudos to the Organizers and NMC Group for job well done.