Pune: Pimpri-Chinchwad Police’s Disha Initiative Shines: Youthful Football Talent Represents Maharashtra in Slum Soccer
Pimpri, 1 March 2024: In Pimpri, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police is actively engaged in a program aimed at guiding children who have veered towards a path of crime. Notably, individuals nurtured through the Disha initiative, particularly in the Nigdi police station limits, are showcasing their remarkable achievements at both the state and national levels. Two talented players from the Disha initiative have earned the privilege of representing their skills in the prestigious national-level football tournament ‘Slum Soccer.’
Recently, a state-level slum soccer tournament took place in Nagpur, where the Pune district boys’ team secured the second position, while the Pune district girls’ team achieved the third position. Impressively, players from the Disha initiative, facilitated by the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police, contributed significantly to these successful teams. In recognition of their accomplishments, Commissioner of Police Vinay Kumar Choubey and Additional Commissioner of Police Vasant Pardeshi felicitated the triumphant state-level teams along with their coaches.
As the national-level Slum Soccer tournament kicks off in Kolkata, a formidable Maharashtra state team has been formed, featuring top players from across the state. Notably, two players from the Disha initiative are proudly representing this state team in the tournament. The initiative continues to serve as a transformative force, steering youngsters away from criminal paths and nurturing their potential in the field of sports.
Shamshad Siddiqui and Javier Pasha, notable players from a football team established within the jurisdiction of the Nigdi police station, are making strides as they secure spots in the national competition. This accomplishment is attributed to the successful implementation of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police’s Disha initiative. Under this initiative, a commendable total of 31 football teams have been organized across the territories of 18 police stations. These teams are actively undergoing training under the expertise of coaches affiliated with the Sandesh Borde Sports Foundation.
In a concerted effort to provide conducive practice environments, playing fields have been made accessible within the police station limits. The teams are receiving specialized attention from dedicated police officials overseeing their training and development. Recognizing the pivotal role played by sports coach Sandesh Borde and social worker Prajakta Rudrawar, along with acknowledging the achievements of successful athletes, Police Commissioner Choubey recently conducted a felicitation ceremony. This initiative not only nurtures athletic talent but also strengthens community bonds through collaborative efforts in sports development.
