The Rourkela Steel Plant Open School Football Tournament – 2024 commenced at Ispat Stadium, Sector-6, Rourkela on 14th September, 2024. Mr. Tarun Misra, ED (HR) with additional charge of ED (Projects) was the Chief Guest at the Opening ceremony and declared the tournament open. Mr. P K Swain, CGM In-Charge (TA & CSR), Mr. T G Kanekar, GM In-Charge (Town Services), and other Senior Officers and employees of the Plant and eminent sports personalities of the township were present on the occasion. At the beginning Mr. Misra kicked the football to mark the commencement of the tournament.
Mr. Misra in his inaugural address encouraged children to take active part in sports as it helps develop not only physical fitness but also important qualities like discipline, leadership, and resilience. Participation in sports, he emphasized, develops a sense of camaraderie and builds character, which are crucial for personal growth and future success.
At the outset Mr. P K Swain welcomed the gathering while Mr. Raghu Nandan Padhi, Deputy Manager (Sports) proposed a formal vote of thanks. Mr. Anil Mallick of Silicon Steel Mill anchored the inaugural function.
In all 29 teams are participating in the tournament that is being played on a knock-out basis. It is slated to conclude on 20th September. The participation is under three groups, namely. Group I- up to Class-X (Boys), Group II – up to Class-XII (Boys) and Group III -up to Class XII (Girls.).