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KIFF NITE – A Nite to Remember !

KUWAIT CITY: The KIFF NITE organized by Kuwait Indian Football Federation (KIFF) was altogether a different dance Nite from all other Nites seen in Kuwait. ‘Legends of Indian Football’ and deserving ‘Players of the Year’ were honored in style at the musical evening held at Fakher Al Din Palace on Thursday 31st May 2007. It is for the first time in the history of Indian Football that a federation outside India has organized such a grand event. “The Awards Nite was marked with pomp and gaiety, and the evening replete with pulsating music, fun and frolic that kept the audience in high spirits till the very end,” wrote the Arab Times in its columns.

The evening had a soccer tone and tenor with the stage backdrop illustrating the famous Soor Grounds even as a large cut-out of KIFF logo dangled in the center of the hall. The hall was emblazoned with streaming lights that created a fertile dancing ambience while dazzling lights of various hues swirled every nook and corner of the chamber.

Deep Impact sparked off the evening playing stylistic traits of music with danceable beat, clear melodies, simple harmonies and repetitive structure that people could catch on and join in. The other ensemble, ‘Soul Shakers’ also joined in playing a medley of songs comprising pop, rock, hip-hop and reggae. Their brand of latest music was well received by the young audience who were seen clapping in harmony and rooted the band from time to time. The ranks of the audience started swelling on floor as soon as the bands changed their track from slow to peppy numbers. A plethora of awards were given away by the organizers in a variety of categories. A glowing tribute by way of a video presentation was paid to all late footballers who played under the auspices of KIFF. This kind gesture of KIFF was highly applauded by the crowd. While a Photo gallery displayed some memories of yesteryears that dated back to 1979 when Indian Football was first started in Kuwait.

Legends of Soor Ground - still going strong

The ‘Legends of Soor Grounds’ were honored in recognition for their positive contribution towards Indian football in Kuwait. Some of these icons had started their football in Kuwait almost 30 years ago and they are still playing active soccer. The Legends honored were Avelino Dias, Julio Cardoso, Mauricio D’ Costa, James Figueira, Theodorio Pinto, Bernard Fernandes, Cipriano Gonsalves, Cajetan Ferrao, Casmiro D’ Souza, Cajetan Godinho and Joseph Salema.

On their part, the Legends, thanked KIFF for according them honor and vowed their support to KIFF to help take Indian Football to greater heights. Nominations for short listed ‘Player of the Year’ awards were announced to great cheer. Two prizes, a winner and runners-up were given in each field category on the basis of voting done by the 16 clubs affiliated to KIFF. Following players won the awards: Goalkeepers:
1. Roman Anthony (GOA Maroons)2. Britto Pereira (Navelim Youth Centre)3. Antonio Fernandes (Chinchinim)

Defenders:
1. Ian D’Souza (GOA Maroons)2. Jesus Vincy Pereira (AVC Overseas Association)3. Teotonio (Kuwait Goan Association)

Midfielders
1. Agnelo Fernandes (DHL)2. Prakash Chandimal (Bombay Boys)3. Vico D' Souza (Kuwait Goan Association)

Forwards:
1. Cruzedio Rodrigues (Navelim)2. Kevin Vaz (AVC Overseas)3. James Goveia (Kuwait Goan Association)

Earlier, all the Ex-Presidents of KIFF, and Presidents of the participating clubs were honored at the beginning of the function. A colorful souvenir illustrating the History of Kuwait Indian Football, profile of clubs registered with KIFF and messages from sponsors and well wishers was released to mark the event.

In his message, KIFF President Mr. Viegas said, “My appreciation goes to the predecessors of KIFF who are with us, today. It is due to these stalwarts that we enjoy football and various other games conducted at Soor grounds. The efforts of individuals who left us for heavenly abode are committed to our memory too...and the goodwill of like minded people who came forward to make this event a great success will be written in golden letters.”
“KIFF is grateful to its sponsors, advertisers, well-wishers and all affiliates while not forgetting the KFF Managing and KIFF Nite Sub-committee and others who contributed to help make the KIFF Nite 2007 successful and memorable. I am sure the glamorous highlights of this event will be remembered for a long time to come.”

A Waltz Competition was one of the highlights of the show that imbued a sense of delirium among the audience who cheered the contestants for their admirable performance as the contest proved to be a cliffhanger. Casmiro and Leticia were declared winners. Victor Fernandes, Mrs. Dunstan D’ Costa and the Rebellos were the select judges for the contest.

Giant screens on either side of the stage enabled the audience to catch the proceedings live. A sumptuous buffet helped the members of audience to energize themselves as they took the floor with renewed vigor and danced until the wee hours. The show was compered by Dunstan D’Costa especially flown from Goa. Kuwait’s own Julio Cardoso assisted the compere to entertain the crowd. The sixteen clubs affiliated to Kuwait Indian Football Federation and involved in organizing the KIFF NITE with full cooperation were:
United Goans Centre, G.O.A Maroons, Navelim Youth Centre, C.R.C Chinchinim, Santos Football Club, Bombay Boys Sports Club, Curtorcares United, United Friends Club, Veterans XI, A.V.C Overseas Association, Kerala Challengers, Fahaheel Brothers, Paradiso Football Club, Don Bosco Oratory, DHL, and Kuwait Goan Association. Indian Football Referees Association (IFRA) also supported the NITE.

The glorious Nite was sponsored by Metro Express – Courier & Cargo, and co-sponsored by Sports Corner.

KIFF NITE Managing Committee B.M. Viegas – PresidentSalvador Dias – Vice President Mario Fernandes – Gen. SecretaryTony Anthony - Sports SecretaryRobin Fernandes - Asst. Sports SecretaryShyam Kumar - TreasurerSydney Rodrigues - RegistrarSeby Dias - PROVosky Leitao - Executive Member

KIFF NITE Sub-Committee

Julio Cardoso

Gasper Crasto

Bosco Leitao

Cajetan Pereira

Fidelis Fernandes

Xavier Furtado