Sudhanshu Sharma
Shimla
To promote sports culture in Shimla, inspire youth towards positive activities, and keep them away from social evils like drug abuse, the Shimla Football Premier League 2026 will be held from May 24 to May 27 at the Summer Hill Ground. The tournament is being organized jointly by Summer Hill Football Club and Shyamala Educational Trust.
Sharing details, Dr. Nitin Vyas said the league is not just a competition but a campaign to strengthen sports culture in Shimla and encourage young people to adopt a healthy lifestyle. “Connecting youth with sports is essential today. A youngster who sweats on the field never strays onto the wrong path. Sports instill discipline, confidence, and team spirit,” he emphasized.
A total of 14 teams from Shimla city are participating, including Summerhill United FC, SUFC B, Sanjauli FC, Shimla FC Under-19, Shimla FC Under-17, Khalini FC, Zangdu FC, Bhattakufar FC, HPU, Sicarios 9, Northwall FC, Boileauganj FC, and Shimla United FC. In addition, two girls’ teams will also compete – a significant step towards promoting women’s football in Shimla. Organizers believe that greater participation of daughters in sports will give society a new direction.
Dr. Vyas highlighted that Shimla has immense football talent but lacks proper platforms and facilities. “If players are given regular competitions and training, they can shine at national and international levels,” he said. He also urged the Shimla Municipal Corporation to develop playgrounds in every ward and appoint trained coaches to provide structured training to children and youth.
The winners of the league will receive ₹31,000 and a trophy, while the runners-up will be awarded ₹11,000 and a trophy. Special prizes will also be given for Best Player, Best Goalkeeper, Best Defender, and other outstanding performances.
Organizers assured that special arrangements will be made for players and spectators to ensure a vibrant sporting atmosphere. They appealed to the youth, sports lovers, parents, and the general public to attend in large numbers and cheer for the teams, thereby contributing to strengthening Shimla’s sports culture.
Dr. Vyas expressed confidence that the league will soon establish itself as a major sporting event in Shimla, giving local youth a new identity and spreading positive energy in society.
