Football coaching centre inaugurated in Ri Bhoi

The Ri Bhoi Football Coaching Centre (Academy) was inaugurated by former Indian footballer Eugene Son Lyngdoh today. The project is a joint initiative of the El Elyon Institute and Nangkyrsiew Thiah Player Youth Club.

The centre will cater to five age groups which are U-16, U-14, U-12, U-10 and U-8 both for boys and girls.
Speaking during the occasion Mayral Born Syiem, Ri Bhoi MLA, appreciated the initiative taken by the two organisations to upskill the younger generation and preparing them for a better future. “This will bring the standard of playing football to an optimum, because a young child once they learnt a skill it will always stay with them. I urge the coaches to teach them not only football but discipline and moral values that they should follow everyday as sports persons, without neglecting studies”.

Eugene Son Lyngdoh, the famous Indian footballer, expressed his willingness to support and help the younger generation in football. “I can see a bright future of football in our state, the things that our players should concentrate on is stay focused, work hard and not be misled by anyone. We have many players from Meghalaya who play outside the state at the age group U-16 and U-14 but only three players have been able to play in the senior Category, that’s why it’s very important to focus on your aims and dedicated yourself to football.”

“I try to visit many places of our beautiful state and have noticed many talented youngsters which gives me hope that the future of football in our state will be bright. I want each one of you to work hard and not resort to excuses because success will be with the person with dedication,” Eugene told the budding players.

In the introductory speech a representative from El Elyon institute said that the main aim of the centre is to provide opportunities for budding footballers of the state. The players will also get an opportunity to improve their technical abilities through coaching.Earlier, Pyngrope had named Lyngdoh as the probable candidate of the party from the Shillong parliamentary seat.

It may be mentioned that Lyngdoh was touted to be in the race for the NPP ticket for the Shillong parliamentary seat. However, the NPP has named Ampareen Lyngdoh as the party candidate for Shillong.