Faraaz the inspiration as tournament declared open

Walton Inter-University Football Tournament, organised by Sonali Otit Club and Green University, was officially declared open yesterday at the Bangabandhu National Stadium with a big festoon carrying the image of a smiling Faraaz Ayaaz Hossain, who sacrificed his life to save his friends during last year's militant attack at the Holey Artisan Bakery in Gulshan, to inspire boys playing 'his favourite sport of football'.

The trophy, which will be handed to the ultimate champions, has been named the Faraaz Challenge Cup to embolden the youths to be fearless like Faraaz as well as keep them away from the dangers of drugs and radicalism.

The official opening of the 20-univerisity football tournament turned into an emotional occasion when Faraaz's elder brother -- Zaraif Ayaaz Hossain -- delivered a brief speech as the special guest.

Zaraif, sporting the red jersey of Manchester United with a sentence on the back reading 'We are Faraaz' said: “Faraaz was a real fan of football as well as Manchester United. It is a pleasure for me to attend the game Faraaz loved most.”

A big festoon carrying the image of a smiling Faraaz in the stands. Photos: Firoz Ahmed

“On behalf of Faraaz's family, I want to thank those who are participating in the tournament -- students, footballers and sponsors. A special thanks to Sonali Otit Club for naming the trophy after Faraaz, who is a big inspiration to the young generation as he refused to leave without his friends during the Holy Artisan Bakery attack, despite being told that he was free to go,” said Zaraif to deafening applause from the participating students and organisers.

“Now Faraaz is the best symbol against radicalism and we, on behalf of our family, hope the tournament will be a success,” said Zaraif before releasing the pigeons and balloons to signal the tournament open.

Bashundhara Group's vice chairman Safwan Sobhan Tasvir was present as the chief guest while sponsor Walton's additional director FM Iqbal Bin Anwar, Green University's treasurer Lt Gen (rtd) M Moinul Islam, Sheikh Jamal DC governing body's chairman Manjur Kader and ATN Bangla's chairman Mahfuzur Rahman were among other present on the occasion.