India’ leading online fashion retailer Jabong recently concluded the first edition of its 5-a-side football tournament, Jabong Turf War held at the G.L. Bajaj Institute of Technology and Management, Greater Noida. Twelve colleges from Delhi NCR participated, all competing for the grand trophy. The final match was played between Gautam Buddha University and G.L. Bajaj Institute of Technology and Management. After what proved to be a highly combative game, Gautam Buddha University emerged as the champions bagging the Jabong Turf War trophy and a cash prize of INR 25,000. Brishektu Pal from G.L. Bajaj Institute of Technology and Management won the Hero of the Tournament Award and received a limited edition Karizma motorcycle signed by Dutch musician Martin Garix of the Animals fame.
Speaking at the award ceremony, Nils Chrestin, interim CEO at Jabong and group CFO of Global Fashion Group, said, “The level of football played in this tournament was truly impressive.  Football has been gaining ground in India and this was quite evident by the excitement among the players and the crowd alike.”

The tournament, which was held over two days, captivated the audience with some exceptional performances by the participants. Adding to these were great live performances by Archis, India’s record-breaking freestyle footballer; emcee Clince, MTV selfie challenger winner; and award-winning DJ Varun.

Hero, India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, drove the Jabong Turf War, co-sponsored by German sportswear major Puma. Other partners were Gatorade (sports drink), Jawed Habib (hair care), 94.3 Radio One (radio), Magic Bus (NGO), Sony Six (associate), GLBIT (venue), Eco Wise (waste management), Crowne Plaza (hospitality), and Jabra (performance).

“G.L. Bajaj Institute of Technology and Management, Greater Noida is happy to associate with Jabong for this great initiative. This event will fill the youth with revived energy and new knowledge as the sports not only give physical fitness but also teach important management lessons. I believe that Jabong will continue to create more such avenues for youngsters,” said Pankaj Agarwal, vice chairman, G.L. Bajaj Institute of Technology and Management.

The tournament was graced by prominent sportfigures with the likes of Abhishek Mishra, triathlete, marathoner, ultra-tunner and the winner of the recent Ironman Mallorca; Sandesh Jhingan and Nirmal Chhetri, professional footballers in the Indian Super League, rallying the participants through the tournament. Fascinating performances by a rock band, dance troupe, and cheerleaders provided a good spectacle for the audience throughout the tournament.

Jabong has been associated with a multitude of sporting events such as the recent basketball festival, NBA Jam, and is further collaborating with the upcoming Airtel Delhi Half Marathon.