By Our Reporter
Shillong, Jan 16: In a spirited send-off ceremony held on Tuesday, the Meghalaya U-19 men’s football team is brimming with enthusiasm as they prepare to represent the state at the prestigious Khelo India Youth Games 2024 in Tamil Nadu. This marks the sole sporting event in which the state will actively participate this year.
The send-off event saw prominent figures offering words of encouragement to the players, including Hamletson Dohling, President of the Meghalaya Football Association, along with Ailad Kynta, Freddy Kharpran, Cliff Nongrum, and Khlain Pyrkhat Syiemlieh.
Meghalaya has a commendable track record, having reached the semifinals in both 2023 and 2022, securing bronze medals on both occasions. Their journey to the podium was halted by formidable opponents, Kerala, in each tournament.
As the Khelo India Youth Games 2024 is set to unfold from the 19th to the 31st of January, over 5,600 athletes from across the country are expected to partake in the event.
Leading the charge for Meghalaya is a formidable 20-member football squad, under the guidance of officials Jeffrey Warlarpih and Beneslaus Khyriem. The competition in the men’s football category will be fierce, featuring teams from Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Punjab, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Goa.
The Meghalaya contingent is set to showcase their prowess on the football field, aiming for a stellar performance and eyeing a podium finish at the Khelo India Youth Games 2024.
