Kolkata: Finding gifted football players at the age of six or so and getting them to train in reputable academies with sufficient facilities are crucial if India’s football standards are to rise. According to Indian football star Sunil Chhetri, schools must also contribute by holding more physical education classes each week. The most crucial element is spotting talent at the appropriate age. We are a vast nation with talent spread throughout its territory. Talented children who live in isolated areas need to be found and taken to facilities with better resources.
The distinction is this. As early as age six, identify and instruct children. They might not have the best training facilities, but that is acceptable. Allow them to grow with the resources at their disposal. The highest level of authority must set the direction for this. Our institutions must be able to better support kids if we want to become a sports-centric nation. While there may be ten math lectures at the same time, the majority of our schools only offer two physical education (PE) lessons per week.
I have a question for you. How many universities can promise their students placements? Not all engineering students can land a good job in a large corporation. I would argue that it is incorrect for someone to play football to earn a certain amount of money in the future. Sport is hard. Few people can reach the top. This also applies to cricket players. As they advance in their careers, they will receive good compensation, but they should not start thinking that way too early.
Recognize that sports help people become better people. I therefore implore all parents to let their children participate in sports. You become a smarter person in the end. It has to do with hunger. You never give up trying for it. Even if you might not be playing at your best during a game, you still need to find a way to win with the support of your teammates. It is a habit, too. After a stage, it becomes muscle memory. You must maintain your mental health and sharpness as well.
