BOSCO NOVA- Celebrating Don Bosco

Thrilling games, healthy competition, skillful athletics, life skill classes, spiritual animation and young energy- BOSCO NOVA was a fitting celebration of Don Bosco and his values. Around 600 boys and girls took part in an exciting and enjoyable football tournament cum life skill classes in Don Bosco Bhavan Mannuthy, Thrissur, Kerala on 25-26 January 2026.
Organised by BREADS Bangalore in association with seven of its Sports Hub partners in Kerala, the two-day events celebrated the feast of Don Bosco (31 January) with the children of the Community Sports Hubs promoted by BREADS’ Sports for Change programme in Kerala.
Day one of the event featured football matches in the Under–12, Under–14, and Under–17 categories. Both boys and girls actively participated, demonstrating remarkable enthusiasm, teamwork, and sportsmanship. The winners and runners-up in each category were honoured with trophies by the chief guest, Hon. Minister for Revenue, Government of Kerala, Shri K. Rajan. Individual awards for Best Goalkeeper, Best Defender, Best Forward, and Top Scorer, recognised outstanding talent, encouraging excellence among the young athletes. The day concluded with a vibrant musical night, offering joyful relaxation and celebration after the competitive matches.
The second day began with a Holy Mass for Catholic participants, while children from other faiths took part in a spiritual animation. This inclusive approach ensured that the spiritual significance of the feast of Don Bosco was shared in a respectful and meaningful manner. Three structured developmental sessions were conducted to nurture life skills, values, and personal growth. Through motivational interactions, the children were encouraged to build confidence, discipline, leadership, and a sense of responsibility towards themselves and society.
BOSCO NOVA, in line with the Sports for Change programme, promoted sports as a positive alternative to substance abuse and other harmful influences affecting young people. Engaging children in structured sports activities provided them with purpose, mentorship, and a supportive peer network. The event also embodied Don Bosco’s educational vision, founded on the principles of Reason, Religion, and Loving Kindness.
BOSCO NOVA was not merely a football tournament but a meaningful platform for character formation, social inclusion, and community building. By combining sports, values and mentorship, the event carried forward Don Bosco’s mission of shaping young people into responsible, confident, and socially committed individuals.