The Fateh Hyderabad Football Club signed a joint venture with United Kingdom-based Premier Education Group (PEG) to promote sports among schoolchildren with an emphasis on physical education as well as to give them a platform to excel in performing arts.
The pilot project has already been undertaken at three schools, and would be extended to about 100 other schools in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh in the next six months.
“It is not just about football or any other sport. Those who are not interested in sports can showcase their skills in performing arts. It is a holistic approach with an emphasis on multi-tasking to tap the talent in different disciplines,” says football club chief executive officer Yogesh Maurya.
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“The programme aims at boosting confidence and self-esteem among schoolchildren. We will only try to help them evolve and realise their goals,” he says.
Aware that such an initiative would be a huge challenge, Mr. Maurya says they are geared up to face the difficulties since their objective was to ensure a culture of sports and quality education.
The PEG would provide the technology, systems, personnel, and other expertise to the football club.
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David Batch, CEO of PEG, said in the U.K. the concept was a big hit because of the emphasis on a strong foundation in fundamentals.
“We are not saying that our role is to produce the next superstar footballer of India. We will only help identify talent based on agility and balance. We will give the children the kind of start they need for their career,” says Mr. Batch, who was the youngest UEFA ‘A’ level qualified coach in the world at the age of 20.
“The programme envisages activity during and after school hours to improve physical and mental health. The parents too will be given a prominent role to play for better results,” he says.