KOLKATA: In an effort to develop sports outside the big cities, the Bengal government has decided to come in support of the Kanmari Football Academy in Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas. In a programme on Tuesday, state sports minister Aroop Biswas handed over kits to 50 women footballers of the academy at the Calcutta Sports Journalists' Club (CSJC) tent. The club has tied up with the Banyan Tree Group to develop football in the region.
"We will look to arrange a proper ground for these budding women footballers at Kanmari," Biswas said adding that the state government will also arrange their training facilities in Kolkata also so that they can come and practise here from time to time.
Former India international Dipendu Biswas was named the technical director of the academy and the striker interacted with the girls for the first time on Tuesday. Biswas also shared many interesting stories of his growing up days to inspire the girls. The sports minister also hoped to see some of these footballers play at higher level someday. "If you have the zeal and the hunger in your belly, I am sure that you will succeed in your endeavour," he stated.
The minister also promised to provide technical help to these players at the sports medicine unit that has been set up by the state government.
The academy was rechristened the 'Banyan Tree Kanmari Social Care Football Academy' with active support from Banyan Tree Group head Prabir Roy Chowdhury. Indian Football Association (IFA) former secretary Joydeep Mukherjee too pledged his support for the project asking the girls to work hard to achieve big in life.
Earlier the day began with a health check-up camp being organised for all the girls by Apollo Clinic.
