Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: In a significant milestone for Indian football, India Khelo Football (IKF) launched the TYGER-IKF Season 5 trials in Goa, marking a substantial expansion in the country’s grassroots football landscape. The inaugural event, held at the Sesa Academy Ground on Sunday, saw an enthusiastic participation of over 200 young footballers, highlighting the vibrant football culture and community enthusiasm in Goa.
IKF’s ambitious plans include covering over 125 cities across India and extending its reach to five neighbouring countries, providing a unique platform for Indian expatriates to showcase their football skills. This initiative is set to transform the Indian football landscape by offering a democratized platform for football scouting, distinct from traditional clubs, academies, and player management companies.
The TYGER-IKF Season 5 trials, conducted in collaboration with Sinquerim Sports Club, showcased the talent of Goa’s young footballers through structured match play and individual assessments. This approach ensured that every participant had a fair chance to impress the scouts and secure a spot in the next phase of the trials.
Phani Bhushan, Founder of IKF, emphasized the organization’s mission to provide a structured and transparent pathway for grassroots footballers to reach professional opportunities. “Our commitment remains steadfast in ensuring accessibility and fairness, offering aspiring players an affordable platform with no hidden costs,” he stated. This initiative is supported by a collective effort from football enthusiasts, corporate sponsors, and dedicated volunteers who believe in the future of Indian football.
The event reinforced Goa’s rich footballing heritage and underscored IKF’s significant impact on grassroots football. The local community, including parents and key stakeholders, expressed their excitement and requested that IKF extend its trials to South Goa to tap into more talent from across the state.
As IKF expands its reach, it aims to provide a platform that is not only accessible but also fair, enabling clubs and academies to scout talent without financial barriers. With every season, IKF takes another step towards transforming dreams into reality, and the TYGER-IKF Season 5 trials in Goa are a testament to this commitment.
