Something is missing from life: coach Ganesh Rai

Our Sports Reporter

GUWAHATI: Renowned coach of the State Ganesh Rai in a discussion with The Sentinel said that football activities of the state should begin immediately once the Government gives necessary permission. Rai, who trains local outfit ASEBSC, also feels the delay or postponement of season can make the situation worst.

The Sentinel (TS): It's July and there is no football activities. Is something missing from your life?

Ganesh: Yes. It's true. I can't remember whether I have spent a single year in my life without football during this period of year. It is the time when football season begins and players start to return into the ground after a break. This thing is happening in my life from the playing days but it is exceptional this year as COVID-19 forced us to stay at home. Really I am missing something from the life.

TS: Football is a team game. Do you belief the footballers will suffer most due to lapse of training for a long period?

Ganesh: I agree. Recently I have talked to my players over telephone and advised them to continue training individually to maintain the fitness. But it will not help them at all if they not play practice matches. Many of the players during the discussion wanted to know when the permission will come. As it is not in our hand so we have to wait for the Government's demission. However we are eagerly waiting for it.

TS: Do you feel AFA, GSA and the other District Sports Associations of the state should take some extra cares to the players this season?

Ganesh: Off course. As the players will come to the ground after a long break so they may face some difficulties to adjust the situation quickly. All the clubs of the State may not provide similar assistance to their players this time. So if the District Sports Associations, Assam Football Association and also Directorate of Sports and Youth Welfare come forward jointly and provide little assistance in the form of fitness trainer, proper guidance for nutrition etc it will help a lot to bring back the normalcy quickly.

TS: There is speculation that football activities may not be held this year across the state. Your comment.

Ganesh: Look, it is very difficult to say when the things will start to become normal. We may need two months or may be even more. If Government gives us permission even in October to start our activities I feel there is no meaning to skip the season. League and other soccer tournaments including Bordoloi Trophy can be organized during the next six months. My opinion in this case is very clear and it is to organize the tournament if Government gives permission to start sports activities in the State by October or November. Complete withdrawal of football activities for a year can bring huge negative impact in the State football. 

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