Somwarpet
The YIFA Hockey Champion Trophy is set to take place from May 7 to May 10 at the synthetic turf ground in Somwarpet, bringing together several prominent institutional hockey teams from across the state.
Organised by the Young Indian Farmers Association (YIFA), the tournament aims to promote hockey among youth and revive competitive sports culture in the region. The initiative also seeks to provide a platform for emerging players while encouraging discipline, fitness, and teamwork.
The event was formally launched with the release of the host team jerseys by local MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda. Organisers said the championship marks a significant sporting revival in Kodagu after nearly 25 years of major-level hockey activity in the area.
Teams participating in the tournament include Canara Bank, Karnataka State Police, South Western Railway, Customs, Defence services, and other institutional sides, along with the host YIFA team. The presence of experienced teams is expected to raise the overall competitive standard of the event.
The winners of the tournament will receive a cash prize of ₹2 lakh along with a trophy, while the runners-up will be awarded ₹1 lakh and the third-placed team ₹50,000. Individual awards will also be given for outstanding performances across categories.
Organisers said the tournament is also aimed at encouraging youth participation in sports and steering them away from negative influences. They expressed confidence that the event will strengthen hockey culture in Kodagu and inspire young athletes to pursue the sport at higher levels.
