MUMBAI: The Indian Federation of Sports Gaming (IFSG) launched its athlete support programme ‘Stars of Tomorrow’ (SOT). The programme has been created with an aim to identify and support India’s future sporting talent in diverse set non-mainstream sports such as Sailing, Squash, Tennis, Swimming and Golf to name a few.
Athletes selected under the programme will be offered critical support towards the fulfilment of their sporting goals. 168 entries were received from across the country, and after a rigorous selection process led by GoSports, who are the ‘Implementation Partner’ of this initiative, 13 talented athletes have been selected to be a part of IFSG’s Stars of Tomorrow programme. Dream11 Foundation, the primary contributor to this programme, has pledged Rs.3 crores to support IFSG’s cause.
Launching the Stars of Tomorrow programme, John Loffhagen, President, IFSG, said, “Inspired by the Indian Sports Ministry’s efforts and initiatives, IFSG wants to facilitate and contribute towards building India as a great sporting nation. Being a part of the sports ecosystem, we feel it is our responsibility to enable the overall growth of sports and provide specific support to deserving athletes at an individual level.”
Talking about the association with the initiative, Harsh Jain, Director – Dream11 Foundation, said, “We are inspired by the Indian Sports Ministry’s initiatives like Khelo India and look forward to many more such public-private partnerships.”
Speaking at the occasion, Bhushan Gagrani, Principal Secretary- Chief Minister’s Office, Govt. of Maharashtra, said, “Any form of contribution & support from corporates, be it big or mid-sized, will help further the sports agenda of our country. The support being provided by IFSG & Dream11 Foundation will encourage these young athletes to achieve their full potential.”
Felicitating the athletes at the event, Mary Kom, 6-time World Amateur Boxing Champion, said. “IFSG’s Stars of Tomorrow is another welcome step towards achieving national goals.”
Prof. Ratnakar Shetty, ex-Chief Administration Officer – BCCI & Advisor – IFSG, “Through proper preparation, resources and sponsorship, talented athletes will get an opportunity to perform to the best of their potential.”
Deepthi Bopaiah, Executive Director, GoSports Foundation said, “We have selected athletes who have exhibited great performances and potential to excel and look forward to work with them on making a smooth transition to the senior level and represent India at the world stage.”
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this feature are entirely their own and does not necessarily reflect the views of India CSR Network and its Editor.
Terms & Conditions: India CSR Network does not permit other Websites/Agency to copy or reproduce or reprint the above article/feature in any form or means.
