Arunachal’s Football Dreams Sparked by Baichung Bhutia School Trials
Itanagar: Over two hundred and eighty young footballers from across Arunachal Pradesh have received certificates of completion following an intensive week of training and trials conducted by the renowned Baichung Bhutia Football School (BBFS) from Sikkim. The culmination of this training saw several promising players selected to advance to the final trial stage, set to take place in Meghalaya.
The concluding ceremony, held on March 22nd, at the Kiyit village playground, marked the end of a pivotal week for the aspiring athletes. Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng, a key figure in supporting the initiative, expressed his admiration for the talent displayed during the trials. “What an incredible day at Kiyit Village as we successfully concluded the football assessment and trial, proudly supported by Baichung Bhutia Football School (BBFS). The enthusiasm, passion, and raw talent displayed by these young athletes were truly inspiring,” he stated.
Tayeng extended his appreciation to Baichung Bhutia and the entire BBFS team, including Siddharth, Aditya, Mkby, and Dhruba, for their dedication to developing grassroots football and providing valuable opportunities to the young players. “Your contribution is shaping the future of Indian football!” he emphasized.
He also acknowledged the dedication and sportsmanship of the participants from his 39th Mebo Assembly Constituency and across the state, wishing them success in their football journeys. His Facebook post echoed his sentiments, expressing gratitude for their commitment.
The closing ceremony witnessed the presence of prominent figures, including Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng, Senior Public Leader and State General Secretary of the Peoples’ Party of Arunachal, Lining Pertin, Dr. Sum Taboh Tayeng, Vice President of Siang Eco-System Environment & Nurture Group (SEEANG), and members of the Yondiip Sirum from Kiyit village, who played a vital role in managing the training sessions.
Certificates of participation were presented to the 280 young footballers by Lining Pertin and Dr. Sum Taboh Tayeng, recognizing their efforts and completion of the trials and training.
Addressing those who were not selected for the final trials, Tayeng offered words of encouragement, urging them to maintain hope and perseverance. “To those who didn’t make it this time, don’t lose hope. Bigger and better opportunities are coming your way. Stay determined, keep pushing forward, and never stop believing in your dreams,” he advised. He also expressed his hope for future collaborations, envisioning the emergence of a future Baichung Bhutia from Arunachal Pradesh. “I truly hope we get to collaborate again, and maybe one day, we’ll witness a Bhaichung Bhutia emerging from our very own state. Thank you to everyone who made this event a grand success.”
Tayeng concluded his remarks with a sense of fulfillment, reflecting on the successful execution of his responsibilities as an MLA, highlighting the positive impact of the football training sessions on the young athletes of the region.
Read More: Tripura: Agartala Braces for Renewed Student Protests Amidst Kokborok Script Stalemate