Players from North East look to Chandigarh for opportunities

The recent blockade of the national highway in Mizoram for more than two months,by two warring groups,is one of the reasons prompting talented footballers to move to newer places. “Lack of opportunities made us move to newer places. Football is growing in India. Kolkata is packed with players from North East and Delhi does not provide quality infrastructure,” said Daniel.

The MoU between Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and UT Administration in 2003 opened new avenues for aspiring footballers from the North East,and a sudden rush of new blood infused a new vigour in city football. Players like KC Lal,Abraham Lalringhetta and Lalruatfela filled vacant spots.

“The players strengthened our team and they never shy away from hard-work. Even coaches from North East say that Chandigarh is the best place for young footballers. We will have more players from Mizoram coming in March next year,” said Harjinder Singh,at Chandigarh Football Academy coach.

The city’s growing stature at the junior national circuit coincided with the rise of players like Daniel,AZ and Jimmy Singh (St Stephen’s Football Academy).

But new destinations and newer goals continued to unfurl as Daniel and company achieved dreams of wearing the blue Indian flannel. AZ got to live his dream as he wore the captain’s armband for Indian U-16 team and helped it qualify for the 2012 AFC U-16 Championship.

“Chandigarh has given us so much. The least we can do is help the team win more titles and make the city proud,” said AZ.