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Beckoning young spikers
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Top coaches and a college get together to train those interested in this sport for free and also take care of their regular education, writes RAYAN ROZARIO
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All that a player has got to do is to concentrate on his coaching, his education and nothing more R. GOVINDARAJULU PRESIDENT, CDVA
GRABBING THE OPPORTUNITY The future's bright
The Kovai Volleyball Academy (KVA) promoted by lovers of the sport is fast getting ready for its big launch in June. "The work is as good as over. It's only a matter of time before we throw it open to the players," says R. Govindarajulu, president of the Coimbatore District Volleyball Association (CDVA).
The senior administrator, who will head the academy, says KVA has tied up with Sri Krishna Arts and Science College (SKASC) for its development. "The College has come forward to back our efforts in a big way, which is good for the game. Like Sri Krishna, there are a few others like PSG Institutions, CRI and Pricol who have joined our list of supporters. This only goes to show that many are still determined to develop the game in the city."
Win-win situation
The tie-up with Sri Krishna will certainly help the players joining the academy. For one, the college has decided to admit selected players for degree courses with total fee waiver. "Besides that, it will provide free boarding and lodging. They will also be put on a special diet. In fact, we have started chalking out a food chart in consultation with an expert dietician," says Govindarajulu.
"All that a player has got to do is to concentrate on his coaching, his education and nothing more," he adds.
The college has also decided to be flexible with the timings for the selected students. If players are forced to miss out on precious study hours, the college will arrange for experienced teachers to coach them to confidently appear for the exams.
He says the chosen players will also be given free sports kits. "We are trying to please them in every possible way and look after them as our own. You know why? Because volleyball is a `love-all' game."
KVA is also entering into an understanding with PSG Hospitals for treating any sports injuries sustained by its trainees.
Learning from the masters
The players will get the rare opportunity of sharpening their skills under the watchful eyes of senior India coach and Arjuna Awardee, G.E. Sridharan, and former international star V.C. Ramalingam. The Academy will also have as members, CDVA secretary M. Venkatapathi and other prominent people and coaches. The best part of it is that Dronacharya and Arjuna Awardee Ramana Rao will act as advisor.
The Academy plans to publicise its work through media and ad campaigns. "This will help us rope in talented players. Also, we will be able to go ahead with our selection trials scheduled for April," says Govindarajulu.
He says they are also considering accommodating women players. "They have also requested entry. If everything goes well in the next two years, then we may take them in."
For a start, KVA will have about 15 or 20 players. "We have already received enough enquiries from Pondicherry, Kochi, Tiruchi and Chennai. If the players fall under the required norms then they will certainly be accommodated," says Govindarajulu.
The criteria
Players should have completed Class XII or be in college first year. They must have a minimum height of 190 cm and should have represented the State or district in some capacity.
Interested players can send in their application with photocopies of their certificates specifying their height to
The Principal,
Sri Krishna Arts and Science College, Kuniamuthur,
Coimbatore-641 008 (Ph: 0422-2678070, 5530570 & 98426-64267 or contact G.E. Sridharan at 98941-70112.
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