Mysuru: Referee Cup-2026-27, a two-day inter-school football tournament, organised by Mysore District Football Referee’s Association, began at University of Mysore football ground in city yesterday. Ten teams consisting of players Under-14 years and 15 teams comprising players Under-16 years from various districts are taking part.

Speaking after inaugurating the tournament, senior football player G. Guruswamy said that sports is as important as studies for children. Pointing out that sports provide good health, he said that it will also help in concentrating in studies besides helping in leading a good life.

Guruswamy said that football has a large number of fans worldwide and added that many countries including India are still trying to qualify for the World Cup and expressed hope that India will qualify for it in the coming days.

Association President Mohanrao Kesarkar said, the Association has organised the inter-school tournament in Mysuru district after 26 years and added that by encouraging children in young age will help them in becoming good football players in future. Senior football player Syed Shakeel Ahmed, Association Treasurer Girish Kumar, Committee member K.C. Manjunath and others were present.