After successful boot camp, Adrian, Godfrey draw up new coaching programme

Former India hockey goalkeeper Adrian D’Souza trains a youngster at the UK Sports boot camp in Malad recently. Pic/Rane Ashish

Former India hockey goalkeeper Adrian D'Souza and football vice-captain Godfrey Pereira will be continuing their coaching activities following the success of the seven-day boot camp organised by Uncle's Kitchen Sports in Malad recently, where nearly 100 participants (between five and 60 years of age) engaged in football, hockey and fitness training under a panel of expert coaches.

"I have trained kids in the past, but this boot camp experience was completely different because around 40-45 kids had never touched a hockey stick before. The greatest incentive were the hockey sticks and balls we provided to all the participants. In four sessions of hockey, the kids did wonders and I'm sure most of them will want to take up the game competitively," the 2004 Athens Olympian told mid-day recently. Pereira, meanwhile, was happy to teach football's basic fundamentals albeit with a twist. "It was interesting because while we imparted football knowledge, we threw in some fun activities and team tasks which the participants enjoyed," said Pereira.

The camp's organiser

Ronnie D'Souza said that the new coaching programme will begin in December: "Besides the three previous disciplines, the new camp will also have personality development and confidence-building sessions for youngsters. Coaching will be held on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6pm to 9pm." For entries and details, contact 9819876923.

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