Gangtok, May 16 (IPR):Aakraman Sporting Club scripted a momentous victory as they lifted the coveted Sikkim Premier League (SPL) 2025 Championship Trophy for the second time, overpowering a spirited Singling Sporting Club in a pulsating final clash.
With this triumph, Aakraman SC bagged the trophy along with a handsome cash prize of Rs 20 lakhs, while the runners-up, Singling SC, were felicitated with the runner-up trophy, medals, and Rs 10 lakhs in prize money.
Organised by Football Development Private Limited in collaboration with the Government of Sikkim and Dear Lotteries, the SPL has emerged as a flagship footballing event, propelling grassroots talent and elevating the footballing ecosystem in the state.
The grand finale unfolded amidst an electric atmosphere at Paljor Stadium, with an enthusiastic crowd and presence of the State’s top leadership.
The event was graced by the Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang, Chief Justice Mr Biswanath Somadder, Speaker Mr Mingma Norbu Sherpa, Deputy Speaker Ms Raj Kumari Thapa, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, Advisors to HCM, Chief Secretary Mr R Telang, Heads of Departments, and senior officials, symbolizing a befitting closure to the month-long league.
The evening commenced with cultural presentations showcasing Sikkim’s rich heritage, followed by a soulful performance by celebrated singer Lucky Ali, adding to the festive fervour of the grand sporting spectacle.
Individual Honours and Accolades:
- League Champions: Sikkim Dragons FC – Shield + Rs 5 lakhs
- Emerging Player of the Final: Tendong Lepcha (Aakraman FC)
- Man of the Match (Final): Nunu Sedu (Aakraman FC)
- Emerging Player of the Tournament: Tendong Lepcha (Aakraman FC) – Rs. 25,000
- Fairplay Trophy: Gyalsing United FC – Rs. 50,000
- Golden Glove (Best Goalkeeper): Nindup Lepcha (Aakraman FC) – Rs. 50,000
- Best Coach: Nicolas Rai (Sikkim Dragons FC) – Rs. 25,000
- Player of the Tournament: Uttam Rai (Singling SC) – Royal Enfield Hunter 350
- Golden Boot (Top Scorer): Dogulas Costa (Sikkim Dragons FC) – Rs. 50,000
Additionally, semi-finalists Sikkim Dragons FC and Thunderbolt North United FC were acknowledged with consolation cash tokens for their commendable performance.
In his valedictory remarks, the Chief Minister officially declared the SPL closed, extending appreciation to the organisers, teams, match officials, and football lovers whose collective efforts made the event a resounding success.
With the resounding success of the inaugural edition, the Sikkim Premier League has set a high benchmark, igniting aspirations for future editions and reaffirming the state’s growing stature on India’s football map.
