From Our Correspondent
Jowai, March 28: The Kyrmen Foundation on Friday launched trials for the second season of its Kynsai free football coaching programme, aimed at nurturing young talent from East Jaintia Hills district.
The opening day of trials, held at the East Jaintia District Sports Association Football Ground in Deinchynrum, focused on the Under-13 and Under-15 boys’ categories, drawing enthusiastic participation from young aspirants.
Trials for the Under-17 category and girls were scheduled to continue through March 28.
However, the event witnessed the presence of parents, coaches, volunteers and football enthusiasts, with registration and document verification conducted prior to the trials.
On the other hand, Kyrmen Foundation general secretary Simi Khongthiang said the initiative, now in its second season, is an annual effort to identify and groom promising footballers from the region.
It is quite fascinating to note that, around 80 participants registered on the opening day, with more expected in the subsequent sessions.
She highlighted the success of the previous edition, where a handful of selected players progressed to the national stage, serving as motivation for the current batch.
“Selection will be purely based on merit and skill, as we aim to pick the best 150 players across age groups,” she said.
Emphasising the broader objective, Khongthiang noted that the programme seeks to channelise youth energy into sports at an early stage, especially in a region grappling with rising substance abuse and health concerns among youngsters.
She also encouraged parents to remain actively involved and monitor their children’s progress.
For the selected 150 trainees across Under-13, Under-15, Under-17 and girls’ categories, the foundation will bear the cost of coaching and provide necessary gear, while parents will be responsible for transport and food.
