Call to make sports a culture

The Sports Authority of Telangana (SAT) say that new schemes to attract students from rural areas will be implemented as they need professional training.

Mr A. Dinakar Babu, SAT vice-chairman, said, “We are trying to do our bit by increasing facilities but educational institutions should also do their part. Students should be given freedom to organise tournaments.”

The issue of sports being neglected will not end until it becomes a form of culture.

Mr Vipin M.J., a physical trainer, said, “Students should consider sports to be just as important as academics. Excuses for missing practice such as tuitions or exams will not work abroad. A game should be given equal importance.”

He said that the peer pressure to place sports second will stop when placements demand the same.

Doctors vouch for the discipline and psychological benefits that playing a sport brings in an individual. Sports persons are more adept with team work and also more focused.

Trainers say that football being the most played sport by students across Telangana state, should be encouraged more.

University of Hyderabad student Rashid Umer said, “We often go to EFLU to play football. We have formed teams and fund our jerseys and equipment on our own. The students union conducts a night cup for the sport. But more support is needed to ensure that inter college tournaments are held. We have also started a girls team to encourage girls into the sport.”