Colombo, January 24, 2024 – The eagerly anticipated Oxford Presidents Cup (Challenge Trophy) is set to kick off on the 3rd of February 2024 at the Sugathadasa Stadium, Colombo. Organized by the Group of 80’s of Hameed Al Husseinie College, Colombo, and generously sponsored by Oxford Group, this tournament has become a staple in promoting soccer among school children and the wider public for the 14th consecutive year.
Objectives of the Tournament
The primary objectives of the tournament include popularizing soccer, fostering fellowship among participants regardless of background, and providing a vibrant platform for young talents to develop character for future local and international soccer events. The tournament also aims to prepare players for larger grounds and floodlit matches, offering a golden opportunity for selectors from the Sri Lanka Schools Football Association and the National Team to identify and nurture future talents.
Key Dates and Venues:
- Opening Day Match: 3rd February 2024 at Sugathadasa Stadium, Colombo.
- Pre Quarters & Quarter Finals: 4th, 5th, and 11th February 2024 at Sugathadasa Stadium, Colombo.
- Semi Final: 18th February 2024 at Sugathadasa Stadium, Colombo.
- Grand Finale: 10th March 2024 at Racecourse Ground, Colombo 7.
Brief History of College Football:
Established in 1884, Hameed Al Husseinie College, Colombo, boasts a rich history spanning over 140 years. Not only has the institution produced notable personalities in various fields, but it has also been a powerhouse in sports. The school, instrumental in training the first-ever world champion in Sri Lanka, continues to shine in football. Over the years, it has clinched major titles across various tournaments, making it a renowned name in school football.
Themes and Recent Achievements:
As ardent football promoters, the organizers have introduced themes for each year. This year’s theme is the “President Trophy.” In the previous edition, Hameed Al Husseinie College emerged victorious in a thrilling finale against Kaluthara Muslim Central College, Colombo, securing a historic 2-0 win in front of a packed crowd at Racecourse Ground.
Invited Teams for Oxford Presidents Cup 2024:
- Ananda College, Colombo
- De Mazenod College, Kandana
- Aligar Central College, Eravur
- St Benedict’s College, Colombo
- St Mary’s College, Negambo
- Maristella College, Negombo
- Hameed Al Husseinie College, Colombo
- Baduriya Central College, Mawanella
- St. Joseph’s College, Colombo
- St. Peters College, Colombo
- D S Senanayake College, Colombo
- Gateway International, Colombo
- Wesley College, Colombo
- S. Thomas College, Mount Lavinia
- Royal College, Colombo
- Al Mubarak National School, Malwana
- Darussalam College, Colombo
- Isipathana College, Colombo
- Dharmadutha College, Badulla
- Zahira College, Colombo
- St. Henry’s College, Jaffna
- Al Hilal Central College, Negambo
- Al Humaizara College, Beruwala
With an impressive lineup of schools and a history steeped in excellence, the Oxford Presidents Cup 2024 promises to be a showcase of talent, sportsmanship, and the enduring spirit of soccer. Fans and enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the kickoff of this prestigious tournament that has become a highlight in the Sri Lankan school football calendar.
Match Fixtures
