Srinagar, Dec 25: Former Indian football star Mehrajuddin Wadoo believes that the current leg of the Reliance Foundation Youth Sports (RFYS) 2024-25 in Kashmir offers an excellent opportunity to evaluate players suited for competition beyond Jammu & Kashmir.
This marks the second occurrence of the RFYS football tournament in the Union Territory, and Wadoo has expressed admiration for the talent showcased last season. He anticipates a significant impact from the competition this term, highlighting the eagerness of many young players to participate.
“Last year was a tremendous success and received an impressive response. Players had a great time and gained valuable experience. Such tournaments are essential for the youth. I witnessed several games and enjoyed the experience. This season will definitely have a great influence as participants are keen to get involved. I’m confident that we will see players who can play outside Jammu & Kashmir,” Wadoo remarked in a discussion with RFYS.
“Girls must keep competing to advance” A notable aspect of the RFYS chapter in Kashmir was the U-19 girls’ event. Wadoo took away significant insights from those matches last year, mentioning that many female footballers exhibited potential for professional clubs and even the national team, albeit needing proper training.
“It was fantastic to see girls take part as well. I watched the finals last season and noticed some talented players who could join outside clubs and the national team if nurtured correctly. To enhance their skills, they must continue participating in such events,” Wadoo expressed.
Wadoo emphasized the need for enhancing coaching quality to fully develop the talents of regional players. He lauded the competitive environment fostered by RFYS and stated, “I believe our primary shortfall is in quality coaching and competition. We definitely need to improve in both aspects. RFYS is providing competition for both boys and girls, which is excellent, but we must actively work on enhancing coaching standards.”
The ongoing matches in the U-15 boys’ category saw impressive victories from SRM Welkin School, Lonestar Football Academy, GHFC Ganderbal, Green Valley Educational Institute, and JK Public School, while SA Academy Ganderbal and NIP School ended in a 1-1 stalemate. The seventh season of RFYS football is currently happening across 10 regions, including Mumbai, North & South Kerala, Goa, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Kolkata, and Kashmir. Matches in Kashmir commenced on December 21, marking the competition’s second year in the Union Territory. This year’s tournament in Kashmir features a total of 32 teams across both boys and girls’ age groups, with matches played in a league format. (Agencies)
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