Anu Modi-Chandigarh, November 20, 2024– In a significant effort to empower the youth of Punjab through sports and technology, the Roundglass Foundation is organizing *Rural Punjab’s Biggest Football Tournament for Children* – the *Roundglass Foundation Football Cup 2024 (RFFC)*. The tournament, currently underway, features 4,000 children competing in U12 and U16 categories across multiple locations in the state.
A total of 300 teams, including 50 girls' teams, are vying for the coveted title, with the tournament set to culminate in the final match on November 23 at the GMADA Complex, Sector 78, Mohali. The event is being sponsored by *The Kavita and Vinod Khanna Foundation*.
At a press conference held today at the Chandigarh Press Club, *Mrs. Kavita Khanna*, Founder of The Kavita and Vinod Khanna Foundation, emphasized the pivotal role of sports like football in shaping the physical, emotional, and mental development of children. “We are proud to partner with the Roundglass Foundation in hosting the *Roundglass Foundation Football Cup 2024*. Sports at the grassroots level are essential for the holistic development of children, fostering community, inclusion, and talent identification. Investing in grassroots sports is an investment in the future of our youth,” she said.
The RFFC is an integral part of Roundglass Foundation’s larger mission to revive and sustain Punjab’s rich sporting legacy. Over the past four years, the Foundation has established 400 *Sports Centres* across more than 350 villages in Punjab, engaging over 11,000 children between the ages of 5 and 16, including girls, in team sports like football. These centers provide safe spaces where children can learn valuable life skills such as leadership, teamwork, discipline, and resilience, all while making positive choices for their futures.
Speaking at the press conference, *Mr. Vishal Chowla*, Leader of the Roundglass Foundation, highlighted the profound impact of these initiatives. “Our 400 Sports Centres are transforming lives by offering children in rural Punjab opportunities to grow through sports. For us, sports go beyond games; they are powerful tools for shaping character and building resilience. The RFFC is a testament to our vision of empowering youth and rekindling the spirit of sports in our villages. This tournament allows children to showcase their talent while celebrating the strength of their communities.”
Mr. Chowla also noted the Foundation's commitment to gender equality, with 50 girls’ teams participating in the tournament, reflecting a gender-inclusive approach to sports. "Of the over 11,000 children involved in our Sports Centres, 26% are girls. Sports help girls break societal stereotypes, build self-confidence, and expand their horizons," he added.
### **About Roundglass Foundation**
Since 2018, Roundglass Foundation has been working to create sustainable social change in Punjab. The Foundation focuses on three key thematic areas: environment and sustainability, youth development, and women empowerment. Through its initiatives such as the *Billion Tree Project*, *Learn Labs*, and *Waste Management* programs, the Foundation has positively impacted the lives of over 2.3 million people in more than 2,300 villages across Punjab.
By working closely with rural communities and local administration, Roundglass Foundation continues to drive meaningful change and make a lasting impact on the lives of children, youth, women, and the environment.