Northeast Desk, 3rd May: The Sikkim Football Association (SFA) has announced plans to organize an Under-15 Boys Football tournament in tribute to the late sports icon Thupden Rapgyal, alongside the state’s C Division league.
Scheduled to kick off on May 15th, the Under-15 tournament will run concurrently with the C Division league, which commences on May 7th, bridging the gap between matches in the latter.
Thupden Rapgyal, a revered figure in Sikkimese sports, left an indelible mark on football and other athletic pursuits over several decades. His illustrious career saw him represent Sikkim in prestigious competitions like the Santosh Trophy and various national championships.
Not only was Rapgyal a standout athlete, but he also pursued academic excellence, earning degrees from renowned institutions across the country. Notably, he became only the second person from Sikkim to achieve a prestigious Coaching Diploma from Bangalore, Karnataka, showcasing his dedication to both the game and its development.
Beyond his personal achievements, Rapgyal’s passion for nurturing talent and providing opportunities for aspiring athletes was evident. Often found at Palzor Stadium in the early hours, Rapgyal devoted himself to coaching young boys and girls, leaving a lasting impact on Sikkim’s sports community.
As a coach, Rapgyal guided prominent football clubs in Sikkim, including the Sports Association of India (SAI) and Boys Club, to numerous tournament victories, cementing his legacy as a mentor and leader in sports development.
Thupden Rapgyal’s contributions to Sikkimese sports were recognized with several awards and honors, including the Sikkim State Meritorious Award in 2011 and accolades from esteemed clubs and associations. His remarkable achievements spanned football, hockey, and coaching, reflecting his multifaceted impact on the sporting landscape of Sikkim.
Even after retiring from the state service in 2018, Rapgyal remained actively involved in sports, embodying the spirit of dedication and service to the community until his passing.
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