India
The inaugural CISCE West Bengal and North East Regional Football Tournament for Girls in 2023 marked a historic milestone in the realm of women's football. Hosted by La Martiniere for Girls School from the 11th to the 13th of July, the tournament brought together six schools, including the host team, to compete across U-14, U-17, and U-19 categories. This significant event not only showcased the burgeoning talent of young female footballers but also emphasized the need for greater patronage and support to encourage the formation of women's football teams in schools.
The tournament provided a pivotal pathway for girls to embrace football as a competitive sport. Teams from Modern High School for Girls, Mahadevi Birla Shishu Vihar, and Delhi Public School Megacity, alongside the host team La Martiniere for Girls, participated in final matches across different age groups. The triumph of La Martiniere for Girls School in all three categories underscored the prowess of the home team and the competitive spirit displayed by young female athletes. This tournament not only served as a platform for friendly competition but also marked a crucial step in overcoming the challenges of forming women's football teams in schools.
Participating schools, players, and coaches acknowledged the significance of the CISCE tournament in promoting women's football at the grassroots level. For many schools, this marked the inception of their all-women football teams, showcasing the potential for growth and development in the future. The tournament not only provided a platform for skill development and competition but also addressed the challenges of awareness regarding football rules among teenage girls. Coaches and referees from the All India Football Federation (AIFF) highlighted the importance of such initiatives in motivating young girls to actively participate in football, fostering a new generation of female footballers. The success of this tournament and the enthusiastic response from schools and players indicate a positive shift in the landscape of women's football, promising a brighter future for the sport.
