BASA football tournament

Bangladeshi Arts & Sports Association Annual Football Tournament

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Bangladeshi Arts & Sports Association (BASA) organised their annual football tournament on Sunday (4 October), an event which has been running since 1992.

Over 100 people came together to enjoy the tournament, whether actively participating in the football competition or enjoying the samosa muffins on the sideline.

The format of the tournament is quite unique.  Tournament players register their interest and are  then ranked based on their playing positions and experience. The draw is made and players are randomly put into different teams. 

Players on the day get to know one another and because they have to play with each other for the first time and create a good bond, which enables friendships to be made that last beyond the football pitch.

A spokesperson said: "Although football tournaments carry the competitive element, this tournament is a one of a kind where football players are more interested in enjoying each other’s company and just being part of a legendary tournament."

The tournament carried a charitable purpose as well. All money made from the tournament was given 50/50 to BASA for football coaching and to Human Aid, to help the people around the world that need help the most. 

The spokesperson added: "The aim of the tournament, organised by Dewan Choudhury, founder of BASA, is to encourage community members to recognise each other and learn each other’s names in a friendly yet competitive environment. Taking friendships away so when you see each other on the street, you are able to shake each other’s hands and give smiles to one another."

Wardleworth Community Centre sponsored the tournament.