The much-hyped maiden edition of the Indian Super League (ISL) held in December last year has inspired the football lovers of Malappuram in a creative way. With the aim of strengthening football in Malappuram, a district widely referred to as the Makkah of football in Kerala, the District Sports Council and the district administration have come together to launch the Malabar Premier League (MPL).
Government support
“The government will give it all support,” said Minister for Industries and IT P.K. Kunhalikutty, unveiling the logo of the MPL here on Monday. The presence of Kerala’s football icons like I.M. Vijayan, U. Sharafali and Kurikesh Mathew added zest not only to Mr. Kunhalikutty but to the entire crowd which gathered at the Collectorate conference hall to witness the releasing of the logo and the mascot.
When MPL matches begin at the renovated Kottappadi Football Stadium here on April 7, it will be scripting a new chapter in the district’s football history. The Kerala Football Association has given its green signal to the MPL.
The District Sports Council and the District Football Association will put their best efforts to brand the MPL.
Aimed at promoting the football talents of Malappuram, the MPL will ensure that all good players will get a chance to play and grow.
The district will be divided into eight football zones.
“We intend to create opportunities for the young players from the district to play in the country’s major clubs,” said District Collector K. Biju.
Training
Mr. Biju said that the income from the MPL would be used to offer special training for youngsters and also to set up a football academy in the district.
Mr. Kunhalikutty said that the MPL would pump in positive energy among the youth. The hosting of the National Games had enthused the youth, he said.
P. Ubaidulla, MLA, presided. District Panchayat president Suhara Mampad; Malappuram municipal chairman K.P. Mohammed Mustafa; vice-chairperson K.M. Girija; District Police Superintendent Debesh Kumar Behra; District Sports Council president A. Sreekumar; vice-president S.K. Unni; Kerala Football Association treasurer P. Ashraf; and KFA secretary M. Mohammed Salim were present.
