Saddam Hossain Mithu, a prominent sports organizer from Shahrasti upazila in Chandpur, has been conferred the prestigious 'Youth Volunteer Award 2026' in recognition of his outstanding contributions to sports development and youth engagement.
Mithu, who is the founder of the Shahrasti Cricket Academy and director of the Shahrasti Premier League (SPL), received the award and crest directly from Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at an official ceremony organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports on Saturday (October 17, 2026). State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque was also present at the event. The award honored 15 exceptional young individuals across eight distinct categories for their contributions to voluntary social work and community development in 2026.
Mithu's academy has provided structured training to rural youths, enabling several local players to earn contracts with Dhaka-based cricket clubs. Additionally, his flagship tournament, the Shahrasti Premier League (SPL)—launched in 2023—gained national attention for its professional management and guest appearances by former national captain Mohammad Ashraful, pacer Mohammad Saifuddin, and musical artist Asif Akbar. Mithu highlighted that his primary objective is to keep youth away from drugs and gambling through sports. Expressing his gratitude, Mithu called the recognition a "dream moment" and pledged to continue expanding youth sports initiatives across the country.
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Reported by Sports Desk • Edited by the Daily Best News desk. Send corrections to [email protected].
