"Valuable life skills, such as social interaction and teamwork, can be learnt from recreational activities’’ Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa

Swamibapa Football Club, part of Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa Academy of Sport, took part in the annual SKLPC 5-a-side football tournament on Sunday 3rd July 2016.

Over 50 teams entered the tournament across 4 categories with Swamibapa FC entering 3 teams in the Under 16s and Under 11s categories.

The sun was gloriously shining at this year’s tournament, which made the group stages particularly challenging. After playing some tough matches and facing some fierce competition, Swamibapa FC A reached the quarter finals in the under 16s. They were cheered on by over 70 supporters including parents, coaches, Swamibapa FC alumni and other members of the Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Kingsbury community – many of whom proudly donning the new Swamibapa FC kit.

Parth Pindoria captain of Swamibapa A said, “It was great to get to the quarter finals, but a little disappointing not to make it to the semis. There was great teamwork from us all and amazing support from the crowds. We will train harder and make sure next year we go all the way and reach the finals.”

Swamibapa B and the under 11s didn’t make it out of the group stages, but came away having had a great experience and for some of them their first taste of competitive football. The under 11s were awarded participation medals for their fantastic efforts throughout the tournament.

The teams ended the afternoon in true community style with a tasty mass picnic in the park.

Swamibapa FC will train throughout the course of the year and will be ready to fight for the tournament trophy once again next year.

Great goal by Akshay from our under 11s - the #SwamibapaFC support team go wild - #SKLP #Football #Tournament pic.twitter.com/KUNtRMX2qA

— Swaminarayan Mandir (@SGadiLondon) July 3, 2016