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What began as an idea within DNA to bring people together through the traditional South Asian game of carrom became a five-month journey across Southern California, bringing players and communities together across multiple cities and counties.DNA (Diverse Network of Alumni) organized the inaugural Carrom Premier League (CPL), featuring nine teams competing in a season-long league format. Unlike a traditional one-day tournament, CPL required players and organizers to travel between different cities and coordinate matches over five months.
Games were played in Corona, Long Beach, Carson, Cypress, Moreno Valley and Victorville, creating a unique challenge for everyone involved. Players had to balance work, family commitments, travel and busy schedules, while organizers coordinated venues, communication and match schedules across a large geographic area. Despite the challenges, the league successfully completed its inaugural season through teamwork and cooperation.
One of the most exciting aspects of CPL was its playoff format. After the regular season, the top three teams advanced to the playoffs, giving them another opportunity to compete for the ultimate championship.
The result demonstrated the beauty of the format: the team that finished third in the regular season went on to become the ultimate champion.
It was a reminder that one bad day does not define a team. In CPL, players had to learn from mistakes, adjust their game and come back stronger. The league rewarded not only skill, but also consistency, resilience and the ability to improve under pressure.
The inaugural championship was won by VIP Shongshod, represented by Sohel and Sumon. South Bay Tigers, represented by Shajib and Labu, finished as Runner-Up, while DNA Eagles, represented by Shahid and Kamrul, placed Third. The Fair Play Award was presented to Long Beach Kings, represented by Shoharab and Alim, in recognition of their sportsmanship and fair play throughout the competition.
The season concluded on August 15, 2026, with a special CPL Celebration and Prize Distribution Ceremony, bringing players, families, guests and community members together. The celebration featured performances by popular local singers Sultana Kabir Mitali, Sadrul Kishore, Nahar Lipee and Saeid Mobarak, as well as a performance by Shahid Rahman and young artist Suhana. Lunch was also served to all guests.
The program was emceed by Shahid Rahman, one of the CPL organizers and a player for DNA Eagles. He shared the story behind the league, including the challenges of funding, finding venues, arranging trophies and food, and coordinating performers and photographers. He also introduced each award and recognition by sharing its story, helping make the program interactive and engaging for the audience.
The celebration also included the distribution of 71 prizes and recognition items, along with a tablet awarded through a special raffle, adding another exciting element to the event.
Special appreciation goes to Dr. Hassan, CEO of Ankle & Foot Mobile Wound Care, whose generous support played a significant role in making the CPL celebration possible. Ankle & Foot Mobile Wound Care sponsored the trophies, food and prizes, including the tablet raffle, making a significant contribution to the success of the event.
DNA also extends its sincere appreciation to its other community partners:
* One Stop Event Creations — Sound & Live Streaming Partner
* ABC Creatives — Digital Marketing Partner
* Church of Scientology — Venue Partner
Their support helped bring the five-month competition to a successful conclusion and made the final celebration a memorable experience for everyone involved.
For DNA, the success of the first Carrom Premier League was about more than winning a trophy. It was about creating an organized sporting experience, overcoming the challenges of coordinating people and venues across Southern California, and bringing the community together through competition, teamwork and perseverance.
CPL showed that carrom can be more than a traditional game. It can be a platform for competition, consistency, resilience and community connection.
And perhaps the greatest lesson of the inaugural season was simple:
You may make a mistake today. Learn from it, come back tomorrow and play your best. Because in CPL, consistency is ultimately one of the keys to success.
DNA looks forward to creating more opportunities to bring the community together through sports, culture and social events. Follow the DNA Facebook page and stay connected for updates on future events and activities.
About DNA
DNA (Diverse Network of Alumni) is a community organization focused on bringing people together through sports, culture, social activities and community events. Through initiatives such as the Carrom Premier League, DNA creates opportunities for connection, participation and community engagement.