Dempo's first-ever grassroot level program sees more than 200 participants

Participants at Dempo’s U-10 Grassroots Football Festival

Following the footsteps of some I-League clubs like Bengaluru FC and Pune FC, Dempo SC, one of the oldest football clubs in India, organised its first ever grassroot football programme at the Duler stadium in Mapusa on Sunday, December 8.

The program, aimed at the under-10 category of aspiring footballer, showcased, what one could describe as the future of Goan football.

As per the clubs registration numbers, more 200 boys form various parts of the state participated in this one day program, which was aimed at creating a learning environment for children belonging to the 8-10 year old category and to give them an opportunity to learn the best practices on a football pitch.

The program also saw few of the senior team players like Roberto Mendes D’silva aka Beto, Samir Naik and Mahesh Gawli play an integral role during the one day event. “The boys remind me of my childhood. I wish that more such festivals are conducted to encourage football at the grassroots level,” said Beto, was one of the favourite among the kids.

Dempo SC has promised that the Mapusa festival was just the beginning of a series of programs planned by the club, which will aim towards developing the beautiful game at its grassroots.