Maksam Tayeng
Pasighat, Mar 15: Former Indian football captain Baichung Bhutia, along with his coaching team from the Baichung Bhutia Football School in Sikkim, began trials and assessment of young footballers in Mebo subdivision in East Siang district.
The week-long event, held at Kiyit village playground, has seen the participation of over 250 aspiring footballers from Mebo and other areas, including Doimukh in Papum Pare district.
The trials, scheduled from March 14 to 21, aim to identify and nurture football talent among boys and girls aged 13 to 19. The initiative, supported by Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng, provides football training, equipment, jerseys, and other necessary resources. Tayeng stated that the program is part of his commitment to fostering football talent in his constituency and the state.
Speaking at the inauguration, Bhutia emphasized the importance of professional training and discipline in achieving success in football. He noted that his academy has been training young footballers for 15 years, with many going on to represent India in various leagues. He said that the selection process would identify the best players, who would then receive sponsorships and scholarships for further training.
Bhutia highlighted the potential of Arunachal Pradesh's youth, stating that footballers from the region, with proper coaching and guidance, could compete at the national and international levels. He encouraged the participants to maintain discipline, dedication, and hard work, drawing parallels with his own journey from a small village in South Sikkim to representing India.
He also acknowledged the support for football in the state, mentioning that chief minister Pema Khandu, as president of the Arunachal Football Association, has been promoting the sport among the youth. He further noted that Tayeng is working towards establishing a football academy to provide sustained training opportunities.
Tayeng described the trials as a significant step towards grassroots football development. He expressed gratitude to Bhutia and his team for their involvement, stating that the program could open new opportunities for young footballers in the region.
The trials will continue throughout the week, with selected players expected to receive advanced training and opportunities for further development under Bhutia’s football academy.
