Dutch Football instructors discuss roadmap with J&K Sports Council secretary

Jammu, Feb 3: In a significant move to boost football development in Jammu and Kashmir, a delegation of instructors from the KNVB—Dutch Football Association (DFA) met with the Secretary, J&K Sports Council, to discuss ongoing and future initiatives on Monday.

The discussions, as per the government spokesperson, focused on a strategic roadmap covering short, mid- and long-term goals, with a particular emphasis on women’s football, coach and referee education, youth exchange programs, and expanding the game in rural, tribal, and border areas.

Given football’s global appeal and its growing popularity in India, the meeting also addressed grassroots development to nurture young talent.

The possibility of formalising collaborations through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was explored to further enhance football infrastructure and training programs in the region.

The initiative is being coordinated by Roger, Raymond, Pinho Dsouza, and Deepak Khanlokar from Acosa Sports Infrastructure, Mumbai.

J&K Sports Council, in collaboration with the KNVB Dutch Football Association, organised a five-day refresher football coaching course from 1st February 2025 at Mini Stadium Parade, with 35 local coaches getting the opportunity to participate in the KNVB World Coaches Program.