GUWAHATI: With the conclusion of the inaugural Guwahati Premier Football League (GPFL), Guwahati Sports Association (GSA) has set new standards and strengthened the football environment of the city. Moreover, it provided a platform to bridge the gap for local talents to showcase their footballing skills and get recognition on a professional level.
Earlier, during a press meet prior to GPFL, Devajit Saikia, General Secretary, GSA, said, "This is an attempt to upgrade the football structure of Guwahati. For the overall development of this sport such events are very crucial. It will provide a platform for institutional football clubs which will further broaden the scope of players for better employment opportunities."
With this league, GSA has given renewed hopes for the youth to pursue a career in football. There was a time when several football enthusiasts had to discontinue football due to the lack of opportunities after retirement. Most players didn't have a secure work scope and stable financial support.
Many players are overjoyed about the fact that the footballing culture is improving in the Northeast, which will further broaden the scope for local talent to get a chance to represent the nation. While speaking to GPlus, Kangkan Sarania, one of the players in the GPFL, said, "It was indeed an exciting league, we got to play against known and unknown players alike. This will help us develop our game and improve individually."
Another footballer, Wilbert Marbariang, while sharing his experience, said, "We had a great experience. A league at this level helps us to hone our talents. Moreover, playing at different pitches and weather conditions is important. I hope that more teams join in to make the league more exciting."
The maiden GPFL had a total of 14 teams, who were divided into two clusters of seven teams each. After a month-long campaign, several players were in the limelight for their exceptional skills on the ground.
Rhittick Hazarika, a football enthusiast, while speaking to GPlus, said, "I should appreciate GSA for organising such a grand football extravaganza. Northeast has so much raw talent in football but the youth doesn't get the opportunity. This will be a stepping stone for the dedicated young footballers to shape their future. I've noticed a few spotters from eminent clubs who closely watched the games. I'm sure there will be a list of players on their books. Definitely looking forward for the next season."
GSA has been associated with football for a very long time. Over time, football activities turned dormant. Hence, GSA came up with two verticals - The Youth and Kids League and Professional Football (Institutional).
The Youth and Kids League was a foundation for developing football in Guwahati which started in the month of November and concluded in December. It had six categories from the age group of 6 to 17. A total of 124 teams and 1482 players were a part of this budding initiative. Coaches, parents and all the stakeholders appreciated GSA’s decision to revive football in Guwahati.
Saikia, while sharing his experience, said, "Assam was a formidable state in football. But, in the last 10-15 years there was a certain lag. GSA's motive was to revive it and provide a platform for players a better future. We are extremely delighted that even spectators showed up in huge numbers. This happened after a long time. In the next season, there will be a total of 16 teams. I hope we get the same enthusiasm in the coming year."
With such initiatives from GSA, the football culture of the city will definitely reach new heights and further continue to provide a platform for budding players.
