Blind Football Championship Kicks Off in Jamshedpur

175 Players from 17 Teams Compete at JRD Sports Complex

Key Points:

• 17 teams with 175 visually impaired players participate in tournament
• Teams from eight states compete in men’s and women’s categories
• Championship organized by Divyang Margdarshan Trust and Indian Blind Football Federation

JAMSHEDPUR – A blind football championship featuring 175 visually impaired players from 17 teams across eight states began at JRD Sports Complex and will conclude on November 3.

The zonal championship is organized by Divyang Margdarshan Trust Jharkhand. Indian Blind Football Federation is the co-organizer. The tournament features teams from multiple states.

Eleven men’s teams are participating in the competition. Meanwhile, seven women’s teams are also competing. The players hail from Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh.

Moreover, teams from Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Delhi are present. Haryana and Bihar have also sent their representatives. The athletes showcase their skills using sound-based footballs.

The footballs contain bells that guide the players. On the other hand, spectators gather to witness the unique competition. However, organizing such events presents significant challenges.

“Arranging football tournaments for visually impaired players is demanding,” said Jagannath Behera. He serves as Director of Divyang Margdarshan Trust Jharkhand. The federation invited teams from across the country.

Players demonstrate exceptional talent despite their visual impairment. In addition, the event highlights inclusivity in sports. Furthermore, the tournament promotes awareness about blind football.

The competition runs until November 3, 2025. Besides, it provides a platform for disabled athletes. The championship follows international blind football regulations.

Each team includes visually impaired field players. However, goalkeepers may have partial vision. The matches attract considerable public attention in Jamshedpur.