SPORTS REPORTER
JAMMU: J&K Bank started its three-day selection trials to pick up probables for the Jammu Football Academy at GGM Science College Ground, here on Wednesday.
The opening day of the selection process was witnessed among others by Chairman of J&K Bank Sports Board, Surjeet Singh Sehgal, who also interacted with young football enthusiasts, who had come to the venue to participate in trials.
A good number of 65 young football players attended to the trials held under the guidance of penal of selectors from J&K Bank.
Finally, after two sessions of trials, the panel short listed 26 probables for the second phase of the trials which shall be conducted tomorrow at the University of Jammu Ground, here, a handout issued by the J&K Bank here informed.
Out of the 26 probables, short listed today, 16 players will be selected after the end of three days selection process on 15th January. The selected players shall become part of Jammu wing of J&K Bank Football Academy for a period of three years during which they will get stipend of Rs 1500 per month in addition to other benefits like apparels, equipment etc.
Earlier, players from across the length and breadth from Jammu Division demonstrated their skills during the trials. The aspirants were made to play friendly matches with the players selected for Under 19 State team which is to participate in the National Championship for Dr BC Roy Trophy to be held at Bilaspur in Chattisgarh from 30th January.
During the friendly matches the aspirants played extremely well and some of the aspirants showed their potential. The amount of talent which has emerged during the trials thus far is really encouraging given the fact that football in Jammu and Kashmir did see turbulence during the recent past but has reincarnated itself.
