SHILLONG: The first anniversary of the Shillong Cricket Academy was celebrated at the Indoor Stadium, JN Sports Complex, Polo on Saturday.
The Deputy Chief Minister, Dr RC Laloo, lauded the Academy for the step forward taken to involve young children in inculcating the spirit of sportsmanship and discipline.
While speaking at the occasion as chief guest, he further called on the youth of the state to take up sports professionally.
He said that educational institutions should encourage more sporting activities in their curriculum.
The minister also said that opportunities offered by coaching academies like the Cricket Academy should be not be missed.
AL Hek, Minister of Health, also congratulated the Shillong Cricket Academy under the aegis of the Shillong Cricket Association for their contribution towards the development of cricket in the state. He wished the Academy success and called upon the students to aspire to achieve the highest level of cricket in the country.
The President of SCA, Naba Bhattacharjee, spoke at length on the objectives of the academy and its genesis.
Gideon Kharkongor, the Director of the Academy, presented the report of the first year’s activities.
He said that the academy has increased in quantity and in quality.
He said that in a recent tournament at Nagaland the academy has sent two players from the under-14 category to play in the state team.
Other highlights included drill displays from the students of the academy besides songs and dances.
Coaches were also felicitated on the occasion.