Media Release
Doha, Oct 14: When passion met perseverance, when teamwork found its rhythm, and when the spirit of a community soared beyond the boundaries of the playing court, Aspire Dome became a theatre of sporting dreams.
The MCA Qatar Sports Fiesta 2026, organised by the Mangalorean Cultural Association (MCA), Qatar, on October 1 and 2, brought together the thrill of women's throwball and men's volleyball in a celebration of athletic excellence, camaraderie and community pride.
Gracing the occasion as chief guest was Priyanka Mendonca, who hails from Udupi and captains the Oman Women's National Cricket Team. Her presence added distinction to the festivities as she formally inaugurated the event, inspiring the participants with her sporting journey.
Amid the excitement, the occasion also paused for a heartfelt tribute to Shobha Shetty, a popular throwball player in Qatar who had recently passed away.
The festivities commenced with an inspiring torch run led by young MCA sports achievers Maveric Mascarenhas, Gladwin Furtado, Arvin Pais and Nolan Quadros. The torch was handed over to Sports Fiesta Committee chairman Aloysius Dsouza before reaching chief guest Priyanka Mendonca, symbolizing the passing of sporting passion from one generation to the next.
MCA president Gladson Almeida welcomed the guests, participants and spectators. The dais was graced by MCA Advisory Board chairman Felix Lobo, advisors Harry Lobo, Arthur Pais and Veena Pais, and Aloysius Dsouza.
Presidents and office-bearers of various Goan and Karnataka-based associations in Doha, International Throwball Federation Qatar chapter president Ravi Shetty, and Milan Arun, former president of the Indian Cultural Centre, Qatar, also attended the occasion.
The women's throwball tournament unfolded as a gripping contest of resilience, precision and determination. After a grueling day of exciting matches among nine equally strong teams, Tulukoota Qatar 1 and Mangalore Cricket Club (MCC) Qatar earned their places in the final.
The championship clash proved to be a nail-biting, seesaw battle, with both teams fighting fiercely across three sets. In a contest where every point mattered, Tulukoota Qatar 1 held their nerve to overcome MCC Qatar and lift the coveted championship trophy.
Dabangg Warriors secured the distinction of second runners-up, completing a tournament marked by spirited performances and sporting camaraderie.
The men's volleyball tournament brought its own share of thunderous spikes, spectacular saves and electrifying rallies. The much-anticipated final saw Amigos Volley Club take on Tulukoota Qatar 1 in an epic battle for the title.
Displaying determination, teamwork and composure, Amigos Volley Club emerged victorious, defeating Tulukoota Qatar 1 to be crowned champions. The final offered a fitting climax to a tournament that showcased the competitive spirit and sporting talent of the community.
Trophies and medals were presented by chief guest Priyanka Mendonca, the MCA Advisory Board members and president Gladson Almeida. MCA Advisory Board chairman Felix Lobo and vice-chairman Wilfred Fernandes graced the closing ceremony.
The successful conduct of the two-day event reflected the dedication of the organising committee, led by chairman Aloysius D'Souza, along with the MCA executive committee members and volunteers, who worked tirelessly and formed the backbone of the event from start to finish.The proceedings throughout both days were compered with professionalism, energy and infectious enthusiasm by Sandeep Noronha and Nelvita Noronha, whose engaging presentation kept the audience connected to every important moment, from the ceremonial inauguration to the final celebrations.
Al-Moayyed Commercial Services and Qatar Electric were the title sponsors of the event.
As the final cheers echoed through Aspire Dome, MCA Qatar Sports Fiesta 2026 left behind more than trophies and medals. It celebrated friendships forged on the court; dreams pursued with determination and a community united by its love for sport.
For two unforgettable days, the courts became arenas of courage, camaraderie and collective pride. And as the champions raised their trophies, one truth shone brighter than the medals themselves: victory may belong to the champions, but the spirit of sport belongs to everyone.