On September 14, the city of Šiauliai will host the official celebration of the Šiauliai Region Football Federation’s centenary, marking a hundred years since the first local football championship was played in 1925. The event, held in the Šiauliai Arena’s small hall, will bring together legendary players, coaches, veterans, and fans from across Lithuania to honor the region’s rich footballing heritage.
For 100 years, Šiauliai has been a key contributor to Lithuania’s football landscape. The gathering will revisit that proud legacy, spotlighting the clubs and players that carried the region’s name to glory. Former stars and coaches from historic teams like Elnias, Statybininkas, Tauras, and Kareda will attend. These sides etched their names into the national record books – together earning 12 championship titles, with Elnias lifting the trophy seven times, Statybininkas and Kareda twice each, and Tauras once. In modern times, Šiauliai has also become synonymous with dominance in the women’s game thanks to the all-conquering Gintra team.
“This celebration is about honoring every person who helped build and preserve football in our region,” said federation president Gintautas Mirauskas. “It’s a rare moment to bring together heroes from different eras, listen to their memories, and thank them for everything they’ve given.”
Plaque Unveiling at Šiauliai City Stadium
A central highlight will be the unveiling of a commemorative plaque at Šiauliai City Stadium. The memorial will mark the official 100-year milestone and honor the pioneers who laid the foundations of the game in 1925. Organizers chose the stadium for its symbolic value – the site has hosted countless unforgettable matches and seen the rise of many local stars. The plaque will serve as a permanent reminder of the region’s football journey, from early gravel pitches to today’s professional arenas.
A-Lyga Match with Historical Flair
The festivities will conclude with a special sporting moment: FA Šiauliai will take on FC Hegelmann in an A Lyga clash, kicking off at 18:25. To mark the occasion, Šiauliai players will wear retro-style kits designed to replicate the uniforms worn during the city’s first football matches in 1925. With their yellow-and-black colors and vintage touches, the jerseys will link the modern team with its roots, blending tradition and contemporary competition.
Information from: https://www.saff.lt/index.php?pg=naujienos&nid=1926
