Bhatkal: The single zone inter-collegiate football tournament for Karnataka University Dharwad, organized by Anjuman Degree College and PG center kicked off in style here at Anjumanabad amid a highly-charged atmosphere on 15th febraury, Wednesday morning.

Shri MN Manjunath, Assistant Commissioner of Bhatkal, was present as the chief guest. Addressing the gathering, he stressed upon the importance of sports in life. If a sportsmen loses in any of thefield, it doesn't mean that he should be degraded, while winning and losing are the two faces of the coin, he observed.

The inauguration of the tournament began with the recitation of verses from the holy Quran by Hassan Kazia (B.com first year), after which MH Mazin (B.Sc first year) welcomed the teams and the guests. Professor Ghanim Mohtesham introduced the host college and delivered the introduction of the participating teams. Laique Ahmed and Mohammed Tamjeed introduced the chief guest and other dignitaries present on the dias during the event.

Guest of honor Dr Irshad Ahmed Makkubbai (Ph.D, NIS Football Physical Education Director, Nehru Degree College, Hubballi) also spoke on the occasion. He urged the students to actively come forward in participating in the sports activities. He believed, that sports play a significant role in the overall development of any student.

The inaugural function ended after the presidential remarks of Jukaku Abdurrahim Saheb (President Anjuman Hami-e-Muslimeen, Bhatkal) followed by the vote of thanks by Faris Nilawar.

AHM college board secretary Javid Hussain Armar, Principal Mushtaque K Shaikh, Vice-Principal Saheel Ahmed Muzawar, Organizing Secretary MM Malik and many other personalities were present on the occasion.

The tournament was formally inaugurated after each of the dignitaries kicked the ball around the field.

A total of 14 teams will be competing for the championship which will conclude tomorrow on 16th February, Thursday.