Lajong set tone for clubs in NE: Renedy
Football is the number one sport in the region RENEDY SINGH FORMER FOOTBALLER
There is no denying that the North- east has been the hub for Indian football for over two decades now. Aizawl FC took it one step further being crowned I- League champions in 2016/ 17, reiterating how much football is an integral part of the culture of the area.
“Football flows like blood in everyone’s veins in the region,” former India international Renedy Singh says. “Football is the number one sport in the region and there is no denying that everyone born just wants to play football. It is very important for the kids to engage in competitive environment from early on,” he adds.
“The right way of playing football from the grassroots level should be taught to the kids from a young age and by working on the grassroots we can further harness the true potential.”
As part of developing a grassroots culture, the All India Football Federation’s philosophy on Baby Leagues has been implemented in the state of Meghalaya and Mizoram.
Even as Aizawl FC captured the imagination of the country winning the I- league, Renedy attributes “self- belief” created by Shillong Lajong FC was a key factor. “Lajong’s performance in the Hero I- League and their consistency enabled others to dream. Lajong are the pioneers of giving young players inspiration in the region. They have set the tone for clubs form the region,” he feels.
“And Aizawl FC proved that it is very possible that champions can be crowned from the North- east. Aizawl FC took Shillong Lajong’s example and movement forward.”
Reflecting on Neroca FC’s dream season, Renedy feels the club’s run has been nothing short of “inspirational.”