M’lore: ICYM – Vamanjoor Unit raises Rs 1 Lac by organizing VPL for Proposed Parish Hall

By Prajwal Lobo
Bellevision Media Network

Mangalore, Feb 2, 2014 : The Vamanjoor Premier League (VPL) organized by Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) unit  of St Joseph - the Worker parish, Vamanjoor, here on Sunday, February 2 not only brought the youth of the parish together but garnered a sum of nearly Rupees One Lac.

 

The format followed was similar to that of Indian Premier League (IPL). There were 5 teams and ICYM identified 5 sponsors (franchises), each of whom bid on a player as an ’icon’ (captain). The money raised in the bidding went directly to the church hall fund and not to the players.

 
Other than the icons, all others who wanted to take part in the match had to fill an application. The icons along with the franchise owners formed the teams bidding for the rest of the players.

 
On Sunday, 12 matches were played between 5 teams. Each team had a distinct jersey. If some matches had dramatic twists and turns, some were predictable. The franchise owners and supporters screamed, shouted and applauded as their respective teams battled for victory.

 
After each innings break, the 4 WDs driven on the cricket ground, bringing energy drinks for the players. There were volunteers with medical-kit on standby to attend to injuries.

 
What stood out in the entire event was the number of sponsors. For each item, there was someone who came forward to donate. Saniya Builders and Developers were the main sponsors. Even the chairs, shamiyana, food, cold drinks, balls and trophies were sponsored by different firms and individuals.

 
During the match, the commentator announced on-the-spot prizes to whoever took a wicket, hit a six or achieved some other feat. People heartily came forward to give away Rs 100 to Rs 1,000 at every juncture.

 
Rupees One Lac was pooled in towards the construction of the proposed church hall.