CHICALIM: Salgaocar Football Club launched its grassroots football programme, at the Chicalim Panchayat ground on Sunday.

Over 500 budding children participated in the first training session of the season.

Salgaocar FC Vice President Swati Salgaocar thanked the children and their parents for their support over the last five years. “We at SFC have always believed that the way forward for Indian football is to develop talent at the grassroots level and I thank all the parents and children who give up their Sundays week after week to support us in this endeavour. We would also like to thank the Chicalim Panchayat for the use of their ground and facilities.”

The children participated in a series of activity  which focused on improving their technical abilities and love for the game under the watchful eyes of highly qualified coaches and volunteers, including those from Salgaocar FC's professional and youth development program.

Meanwhile, the parents were given an opportunity to have an interactive session with Dr Taylor Harvey, a trained Oseteopath from Australia who briefed them about the science behind osteopathy and pain relief.

This is the first of 20 sessions between now and March targeted at engaging youth from the vicinity of Vasco as part of Club's grassroots and community outreach initiative this season.

“The focus is to introduce newcomers into football at a young age, create a safe environment for them to play in and most importantly ensure that the children enjoy themselves,” said Adlear D’Cruz, Salgaocar FC General Secretary.

Salgaocar FC President Shivanand Salgaocar, Team Manager Sanjeev Nagvekar and Ranjana Salgaocar were present for the opening ceremony.