Herald: Could you elaborate on Campus MRD7?
Mandar Rao Dessai: Campus MRD7 is something I dreamt and which is a reality today. I always wanted to spread the knowledge and skills that I have personally. I think this is a platform which is best to do so. I know I can’t give my full time but with the support of my friends and team headed by Clinton D’Souza Campus MRD7 will be something that every football lover and young player would love to be a part of.
H: What’s the idea/reason behind starting this initiative? What inspired you?
MRD: The idea and initiative was a joint idea by me & my friend Clinton D’Souza. As a player it’s wonderful to play the sport and I always wanted to give something back to the fans and kids. Always thought about doing something for the kids with regards to football and this was the best I could do for Goa and I am enjoying it.
H: There are already many academies/ clubs who are into football grassroots. How different is Campus MRD7?
MRD: Yes I agree, there are many academics and clubs which are into football grassroots. Well we are also one of them who are coming up, but we aren’t here to make any money when it comes to football. We think only of providing the best skills and techniques to the kids. We not only provide football coaching but also provide personal attention to the kids which is mandatory at this age. We have counselling session with motivation talks for both kids and the parents.
H: What’s the ultimate goal of this project?
MRD: Like I said before we are working on a child’s (player’s) all-round development and our ultimate goal is to have legends grown and built from Campus MRD7. This is just a small project with a greater picture as we are planning to build a team and produce players in future, start with our own coaching centres and also running an academy.
H: How does the programme function on financial basis?
MRD: Initially it was free but sometimes whatever is offered free isn’t valued much and we experienced it. So henceforth we shall charge a minimal fee so that it creates some seriousness among the young players and parents too.
H: How do you manage to balance your time (at FC Goa and Campus MRD7)?
MRD: I am not a full time coach yet and at Campus MRD7 we have certified coaches and also some quality players who help me out in running this programme. So my presence is not always required here but I do visit the centre and share the knowledge and skills that I have. I personally can’t be at the centre but I make sure I get all the details and feedback about this programme on a daily basis.
H: What is taught at the camp? And is the short term camp period sufficient for the kids to learn everything?
MRD: We train the children the basics of the sport and moreover make them fall in love with ‘The Beautiful Game’. Personally I know the short period is not sufficient for the kids. But as of now we will continue this programme for two months and also work on the idea of continuing it in future.
