On Saturday 13 July, an exhilarating day unfolded as over 200 girls gathered at Gibbons Recreational Ground opposite BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London to participate in the highly anticipated annual National Children’s 5 a-side Football tournaments organised by BAPS Charities.
Children from the ages of 6 to 12 years across 16 centres participated, some from as far north as Preston and as far south as Crawley. This inspiring event was made possible by the unwavering support of numerous volunteers, alongside parents and family members who lent their encouragement from the sidelines.
The day kicked off with a vibrant and energetic opening ceremony, setting the stage for a day filled with excitement and camaraderie. Each player demonstrated exemplary sportsmanship and teamwork, showcasing their passion for the game.
As the tournament advanced into the knockout stages, the level of competition intensified, with every participant striving to secure a coveted spot in the finals. The atmosphere was electric, amplified by England’s participation in the Euros final that weekend, infusing the event with extra anticipation and football fever.
Levels of enthusiasm and team spirit soared to new heights as the day progressed. A staggering 139 goals were netted throughout 87 thrilling games, with 29 of these scored by the top goal scorers across various age groups. The day was an undeniable triumph, celebrating the passion and talent of all who participated. It was a memorable day that highlighted joy, teamwork, and the unifying power of sport.
Below is a summary of the awards:
| Cup (Age Group) | Winners | Runners Up |
| Ekta Cup (6-8) | Samp B (Barnet, Chigwell, Havant) | Samp A (Birmingham, Coventry, Leicester) |
| Bhakti Cup (9-11) | Chigwell B | South London C |
| Premvati Cup (12-14) | Leicester A | Chigwell A |
