By Bilal Habib
PAMPORE, January 1: A snow football tournament, organized by Itihad Football Academy, Pampore, provided an exhilarating winter sports experience at Iqbal Ground, Pampore. Teenagers from the saffron town braved icy conditions to showcase their football skills and passion, making the event a unique celebration of community spirit.
The snow-covered ground added a new dimension to the game, drawing enthusiastic participation from young players. Mohammad Sufiyan, a participant, shared his excitement, stating, “It was an amazing experience playing in the snow for the first time. We hope such events continue in the future.”
Mehman Mehraj, coach of Itihad Football Academy, highlighted the tournament’s significance, noting that it was the first time such an initiative had been organized in Pampore. “This event encouraged children to step out of their homes and engage in productive activities, breaking the cycle of mobile phone addiction,” he said.
Despite the harsh winter conditions, the players’ enthusiasm underscored the growing interest in football among Pampore’s youth. Mehraj emphasized the academy’s decade-long efforts to train children for national and international competitions and to provide them with a platform to achieve their dreams.
However, the lack of an indoor stadium remains a significant challenge. “An indoor facility would allow children to continue their practice uninterrupted, even in adverse weather. We urge Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom, and the Youth Services and Sports Department to address this need,” Mehraj added.
He also pointed out the broader impact of such initiatives, saying, “Engaging children in sports can help counter societal issues like drug addiction and ensure a brighter future for our youth.”
The tournament concluded on a high note, with participants and organizers calling for sustained efforts to promote football and other sports in the region. The demand for an indoor stadium stands as a testament to the aspirations of Pampore’s young talent, eager to excel and bring pride to their community and the nation.
