The International Tamil Youth Organization (TYO) held its annual TYO Sports Event 2025 in the Netherlands last weekend, bringing together youth from across Europe in a vibrant display of sporting talent and national pride.
Held over two days, the event opened with a symbolic ceremony that included the lighting of the common flame, the raising of the Tamil Eelam national flag, the unveiling of the Maaveerar remembrance portrait, and a tribute flame lit in honour of fallen cadre Major Murali. Floral and candlelight tributes followed, marking an emotional start to the event and grounding the sporting weekend in remembrance and resilience.
As the event drew to a close, the Tamil Eelam national flag was ceremonially handed over, with the resounding chants of “Nambungal Tamileelam” and “Tharakam Mandiram” echoing through the venue—calls of unity, hope, and unwavering dedication to the Tamil struggle for justice.
Throughout the venue, historical banners chronicling the Tamil Eelam liberation struggle were proudly displayed. These powerful visuals served both as tributes to those who fought and as educational exhibits for younger generations. The banners showcased the rich heritage of the Eelam Tamil people and affirmed the historical legitimacy of their call for self-determination.
In a parallel effort to engage and educate younger attendees, children took part in colouring activities featuring national symbols of Tamil Eelam—an initiative aimed at fostering early connections with their cultural identity and political history.
This year’s futsal tournament featured 23 teams from Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, and Belgium. The final match was preceded by the raising of the Tamil Eelam national flag.
On the second day, further competitions in badminton, kilithattu, and volleyball took place, drawing enthusiastic participation and bringing together Tamil youth from across the diaspora.
