All star exhibition match held in Srinagar

Ishfaq, Wadoo enthrall spectators with their Play

Srinagar, June 18: The city central Polo Ground Srinagar came alive on Thursday with the all star exhibition match that was organized by Football Players Welfare Association and sponsored by Srinagar Municipality Committee.

Apart from different international and national stars of valley who have been associated with different sports, valley’s two international footballers Ishfaq Ahmad and Mehraj-ud-din Wadoo played in the match. To watch the fun cum exhibition match large number of spectators had thronged Polo ground.

Mayor’s-XI was led by Ishfaq Ahmad while Commissioners-XI was led by Mehraj-ud-din Wadoo. In the match that was being played with the aim to promote football and other sports of valley players of both teams gave out their best performance.

From the start match was dominated by Commissioners-XI. Though Mayor’s-XI made some decent moves they were very few as compared to Commissioners-XI. The first half turned out as goalless. In second half Commissioners-XI stepped up their attack and they were successful in scoring back to back two goals. Khursheed scored first goal while second was scored by Hussain.

In match all the players were stars and had done something special in their respective sports field but whenever ball was under the possession of either Ishfaq or Wadoo the crowd was coming alive and were giving huge roar. Both stars did not disappoint their fans who had come in huge number by giving out their best.

Commissioners-XI won match by 2-0.

After the all star exhibition match between current footballers of valley was played. Like previous one this match was also led by Ishfaq and Wadoo.

It was first time that such a match was played in the history of valley football. The main aim of the match was to give fans some thing cheer as the football season in valley has not started yet despite climate been idle.

Wadoo said, “I cannot express how much happy I am. It is after long time that I played football in front of my own people. The more delightful experience was to play alongside to those who have taught me lot since my childhood.”

About the match and he said, “Though all the players who played were not footballers but they played excellent football. In the match their was Olympic skier, international kayaker, Cyclist and also cricketers.”

On the occasion Ishfaq said, “I always look for opportunity to play in valley. It was only because of that reason I played in last years Santosh trophy tournament that was held in Srinagar. So when FPWA asked me about the match I readily agreed to play.”

“It was fun to play alongside former stars of valley that have made state proud by achieving success in their respective sports field.” he added.

On the occasion J&K Football association was criticised by the spectators for wasting whole season without starting yearly league.

“Usually at this time of the year league football used to be in full swing but this year not a single match has been organized. We get only few months to enjoy football here in valley due to climatic conditions and Football Association has robed us of that as well” said septuagarian football fan Muhammad Ismail.

Pertinently in valley active football season is only for five months from mid April to ending September due to climatic conditions. Out of that almost two months have passed and there is no sign of league being started.

Teams

Mayor’s-XI: Ishfaq Ahmad, Zahoor Haroon, Abdul Qayoom (cricketer), Zahoor Bhat (cricketer), Reyaz Ahmad( cyclist), Khurshid Baba, Iftikhar, Zahoor Latoo( Kayaking), Mushtaq, Nazir Andrabi, Waseem Feroze, Aijaz Rah and Zahoor Teli.

Commissioner’s-XI: Mehrajj-ud-Din Wadoo, Syed Ahmad, Aijaz Ashai( Physio Therapist), Khursheed, Hussain, MY Dar, Gul Mustafa( Olympian),Tabrez, M Aslam, Samiullah (cricketer) and Tajamul.

Apeared in Greater Kashmir on June 19 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=19_6_2009&ItemID=13&cat=4

Troops still ‘occupy’ Bakshi Stadium

Players, Officials Allege Harassment, PRO CRPF Denies

Srinagar, June 14: Despite repeated assurances by the successive regimes, major portion of Bakshi Stadium, here, is still ‘occupied’ by the para-military CRPF troops.

Named after former prime minister of J&K, Bakshi Ghulam Muhammad, the stadium was once hub of sports activities. But since the militancy erupted in Valley in early 90’s troops occupied major portion of it. It has become a transit camp for troops now.
From entrance gate to interiors of the stadium building, major chunk of the stadium is occupied by the troops.
Southern and Northern pavilions of the stadium are under troops. They are also occupying the changing rooms and other office rooms of J&K State Sports Council. The troops also use one side of the stadium as parking space for their vehicles, which number from 50-60 each day. The security scenario inside stadium is so intense that no one can enter or leave without the permission of troops.
At entrance gate bunkers have been erected and concertina wire has been placed which makes entry of players and officials difficult. After crossing the main gate, one can see security vehicles parked in and around.
“This Stadium is more of security camp. Players find it hard to enter inside the stadium despite having valid identity cards. It is only after they call manager stadium they are allowed to enter. The troops don’t also allow them to park their vehicles inside,” said, a Sport Council coach, on the condition of anonymity.
“It is not only players, but we also many a times have to face the wrath of troops. Despite knowing us they don’t allow us to enter when they have got some high-ranking officer inside. If they can do it with us what can players expect?” he asked.
The troops have erected urinals on the side of basketball court and cricket practice wickets, which makes practice of players difficult.
“There is such a foul smell that one can’t stand, not to think of practicing for hours. We don’t understand why they have erected urinals despite having bathrooms under their occupation,” said a basketball player, Harpal Singh.
“In contrast to Jammu players and coaches have round the clock access without any difficulty. I was in Jammu and used to practice till late hours. But here after the Council office closes at 4 pm, no one is allowed to practice,” he added.
Heavy presence of troops bars parents to send their children for the coaching in the stadium. They fear that, if any untoward incidence happens, their children would be in trouble. Another thing that is worrying parents is regarding girls. Due to presence of forces they are hesitant to send them for coaching.
“How can a parent send his ward to practice at a place which is fully occupied by the troops who roam half naked inside the stadium. Once a parent enters stadium with his ward inside for admission, firstly he faces difficulty at entrance due to security. Some how when he manages to enter he can easily see security personals roaming and sleeping half naked in the stadium. That makes the decision to send wards for regular practice very difficult,” said a coach of the Council.
The other difficulty faced by the female staff and students is the non-existence of female security personals at the entrance gate.
“There is no female security at entrance gate for security check. The male security personals deliberately harass us in the name of security. Many a times, we go back from the gate,” said Shazia, an athlete.
The players also say that the dogs of CRPF bark at every one.
“The dogs have made our life difficult. They bark and run after us whenever we enter or leave the stadium,” said, Amir, a footballer.
Manager Bakshi Stadium, Abdul Qayoom, said, “We have got nothing to do with it. Whether security remains in stadium or not it is the decision of Government and home ministry.”
Public Relation Officer, CRPF, Prabakhar Tripathi denied the allegations.
“No player or official is ever harassed by the troops. Our job is to only check the identity of the players and officials,” he said.
“There are only sniffer dogs are always under proper check by the troops and they can’t create any problems as such,” he added.

Appeared in Greater Kashmir on June 15 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=15_6_2009&ItemID=32&cat=4

Abid Nabi, Dhruv Mahajan sever ties with ICL

Srinagar, June 12: Valley’s International cricketer, Abid Nabi has severed ties with rebel India Cricket League and is most likely to play for JK Ranji team this season.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently welcomed back 79 cricketers to the fold after they cut ties with the rebel Indian Cricket League (ICL).
Among the 79 players who have been granted amnesty by the BCCI, name of two JK players Abid Nabi and Dhruv Mahajan also features. Like other 77 players who belong to different states Abid and Dhruv are eligible to play for their respective states from June 1. It means that JK Ranji team, which has been performing badly in Ranji trophy, will get services of two players who have international experience.
Abid and Dhruv along with other 77 players had got NOC from ICL and applied for rejoining the mainstream cricket under the amnesty scheme offered by the BCCI. The BCCI, after scrutinizing the requests, has written to the concerned state associations that these players are eligible to play in the domestic tournaments from this year.
Guidelines with respect to participation in Indian Premier League will be intimated to state associations after consultation with IPL body, the BCCI statement at the time of granting amnesty had mentioned.
The Board has also decided that such players will have to serve one-year cooling off period before becoming eligible to play international cricket.
The Indian board announced on April 29 an amnesty for all Indian players associated with the rebel ICL, with a May 31 deadline. Players who did so would be eligible to play international cricket after a one-year ‘cooling period’ and domestic cricket from June 1, when the ICC’s new rules on official and unofficial cricket came into force.
Though BCCI statement clearly states it that the players who have been granted amnesty are eligible to play for respective state teams from June 1. The J&K Cricket Association still has not received any communications regarding allowing these players in the domestic cricket.
The JKCA general secretary, Saleem Khan, said, “We haven’t received any communication till now from the BCCI regarding allowing the players to play domestic cricket. When we receive any new guideline from BCCI, we would welcome these two players in our fold.”
He also made it clear that the players will have go through selection trails in order to pave their way back into state team.
“It is not as such that they will get automatic place in the JK Ranji team but they will have to go through selection trials like any other player,” he said.
The JKCA general secretary also suggested both the players to respect the organization whether they are part of it or not.
“I want to suggest both players particularly Abid to respect organization, team, club whether you are part of it or not. After joining the ICL he (Abid) many times publicly criticized JKCA and its policies. We never reacted and now he has again come back to our fold. He is young and has to learn a lot,” Khan said.
Abid came into limelight when he was called by former Team India coach Greig Chappel to Mohali were Team India was playing a test match. Abid was recommended by former Australian great Deniss Lilee to Greig who was impressed by his skills at MRF pace academy. In Mohali, Abid bowled at players like Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid and impressed them. Despite that he could not find a place in Team India.
Dejected with the attitude of BCCI selectors, despite performing brilliantly in Ranji trophy for JK team, Abid joined ICL.
In ICL, Abid was part of the Delhi Giants. He played in two ICL tournaments. Though he was not able perform in first season but in second season he performed brilliantly and regular feature in team.
Dhruv is an all rounder and showed his skills in ICL by winning couple of man of the matches. If Abid joined ICL because he could not find place in national for Dhruv it was platform to show case his talent.
Abid confirmed that he has got NOC from ICL and also amnesty from BCCI.
“I’ve been granted amnesty by BCCI. I look forward to play for JK team but that depends on the conditions set by BCCI,” he said.

Apeared in Greater Kashmir on June 13 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=13_6_2009&ItemID=35&cat=4

Bashir Malik nominated for Glory of India Award

Srinagar, June 11: After receiving Rashtriya Guarav Award recently, former general secretary J&K Football Association, Bashir Ahmad Malik, has been selected for international award “Glory of India Award” by a noted voluntary organization of New Delhi – India International Friendship Society for his contribution in the field of sports.
The prestigious award would be presented to him at the annual function of the organization to be held at London on July 18, according to a letter received by him from the organization.
“In recognition to your contribution towards the development of sports in the J&K state, we nominate you for our annual international award. We are impressed with your contribution and the services in the field of sports and feel privileged to honor you,” the letter said.
The India International Friendship Society is a voluntary organization established to forge greater unity and integrity among the people of Indian origin living anywhere in India or in any part of the world. To honor persons who have contributed in different fields, it organizes award ceremonies every year in Delhi and outside country. The society has already honored personalities like Mother Teresa, B D Jatti, M Fatima Devi, Justice P N Bhagwati, K B N Singh, Bhishma Narain Singh, G V G Krishnamoorthy, Vijay Mallya besides film artists Sunil Dutt, Dev Anand, Pran, Shammi Kapoor, Rajendra Kumar, Rajesh Khanna, S P Balasubramaniam, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Sunil Gavaskar and several other eminent personalities.
Malik has been active in the sports field of the state since 1980. He was a regular member of Iqbal Sports Football Club till 1989 during which he represented the state in two national championships besides a number of other all India level competitions. He held the post of treasurer JKFA, Kashmir wing from 1996 to 2004. He was elected as general secretary JKFA in 2004.
Apart from organizing Santosh Trophy, the state excelled in many events at the national level during his tenure. He is the chairman Iqbal Sports, a private football club which has given many a great footballers to the state including international stars, Mehraj-ud-Din Wadoo and Ishfaq Ahmad.
Malik has already got Rashtriya Gourav Award in a function held at New Delhi recently given by the same organization.

Apeared in Greater Kashmir on June 12 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=12_6_2009&ItemID=31&cat=4

8th All India Police Water Sports Championship

JK Coach delighted with team’s performance

ABID KHAN

Srinagar, June 9: A day after JK team was declared overall champions in the 8th All India Police Water Sports championship, JK coach was all praise for his team and hoped that they will continue their performance in coming events as well.
JK was declared over all team champions as they won 13 gold and three silver medals.
“We had expected to bag overall team championship but never thought of bagging such number of medals. Players gave out their best. It is not for the first time that we bagged team championship, but it was first time we bagged it in both Kayaking and Canoeing events,” the coach said.
Out of 18 events in Kayaking and Canoeing, JK bagged medals in 16. In Kayaking team bagged seven gold and two silver medals while it bagged six gold and one silver in Canoeing. The only disappointment was Rowing in which JK couldn’t even qualify heats.
Asked, how team achieved amazing results in Kayaking and Canoeing events, the coach said, “We had the advantage of being hosts and the second reason was that the newly procured boats by our department. In previous national events, we had disadvantage of not having practice of new latest boats.”
The coach was all praise for his player’s particularly international star Zahoor Latoo and new find Adil who both bagged three individual gold medals in addition to team medals.
“We had kept all our hopes on Zahoor and he delivered from the day one. Zahoor’s performance boosted the morale of other players and they also delivered,” he said.
During the championship, selection of players for All India Police team was done. The event would be held in Himachal Pradesh in October.
In the championship, total 18 teams of various State Police and paramilitary forces compete.

Zahoor brings laurels for JK

GK NEWS NETWORK

Srinagar, June 9: Going with his reputation of winning medals for state and his team, valley’s international Kayaking player, Zahoor Lattoo won nine medals for his team in the 8th All India Police Water Sports Championship that concluded at Sheri-Kashmir International Convention Centre here on Monday.
Before championship every one expected medals from Zahoor as he has been the lone individual medal winner for his departmental and state teams all these years in various national events.
He did exactly that by winning first gold for team in K-1, 1000-meter event and then in second joined Parvez in K-2, 1000 meter to bag second gold. He was also part of K-4, 1000 meter, which won gold on opening day.
Zahoor continued his superb form on second day by winning gold in K-1, 500 meter event and then won another gold along with Parvaiz in K-2, 500-meter event. In K-4, 500 meter he had satisfy with silver medal along with team.
In K-2, 200 meter he won silver while won gold in K-4, 200 meter. K-1, 200-meter event, which is considered toughest event of championship and is also favorite event o Zahoor was held on last day of the event. Zahoor without disappointing any one bagged gold in that as well.
With these nine medals Zahoor has bagged 45 national medals for state at national level. He has also represented country in international event at Malaysia.
“Before championship I expected to win atleast five medals as I had done that before as well. At the end of first day after winning one individual and two team gold medals, winning nine out of nine looked possible for me” he said.
Zahoor has now set his eyes on senior national championship and 34th national games that are going to be held in Himachal Pradesh and Jharkhand respectively.

Emerging star of the event

GK NEWS NETWORK

Srinagar, June 9: Every one expected Zahoor to bag individual medal for JK team in 8th All India Police Water Sports Championship, but the player who surprised every one was young talented Canoeing player Adil who won three out of three individual gold medals.
Before this event Adil, 19, had not participated in any senior national event and had been performing in junior national events only. So no one expected him to bag three individual gold medals.
But the coach, Farooq Ahmad had always trust in his capabilities and gave him responsibility of representing team in C-1 event ahead of several senior players. Though at that time it did not go well within the team, but Adil with his performance on the opening day proved the decision of the coach right. He won gold in K-1, 1000 meter. In the championship he won six gold medals that included three individual medals also. He also won one team silver medal.

Apeared in Greater Kashmir on June 10 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=10_6_2009&ItemID=10&cat=4

8th All India Police Water Sports Championship from today

GK NEWS NETWORK

Srinagar, June 1: The stage is set for 8th All India Police Water Sports championship scheduled to commence in Dal Lake on Tuesday.
Around 350 athletes from 18 teams from all over India are going to participate in the week-long event that will be inaugurated by chief secretary, S S Kapur.
This is second time that JK Police will be hosting mega event after hosting the 3rd All India Police Water Sports Championship in 2003. The competitions of kayaking, Canoeing and Rowing would be held in the championship.
“For making this event, a grand success we have made all arrangements ready. In the championship competitions of the three water sport disciplines would be held. In Kayaking and Canoeing competitions of nine events will be held while in Rowing competitions of six events would be held” Director General of Police (CID), Dr Ashok Bhan said.
He said that in the championship recently procured start of the art Kayaking and canoeing boats would be used.
“Our department has recently procured in start of the art water sport boats and the events of championship would be held in those boats. With acquiring of boats our department has become self sufficient in water sports and we are not dependent on any one,” Dr Bhan said.
When asked about the strength of JK team and their preparations he said, “The strength of our team would be of 20 members and we will participate in all the three disciplines. Our team is ready and they have been practicing through-out year for this event.”
“As for players we have got international level of players in our team who has brought laurels for state in various competitions. Our team will be having advantage of being host and due to that reason we are hoping that we will win more medals this time,” Dr Bhan said.
Since 1998 when JK Police formed water sports team it has always excelled in All India Police Meet and have brought laurels for their department and state. They have also won laurels in other national and international events.
Team has twice won Kayaking team championship in All India Police meet and has remained runner-up on two occasions. In 2006, team won team championship by winning three gold, one silver and one bronze and in 2007 they won one gold, two silver and four bronze medals.
In Kayaking competitions will be held in K-1, K-2 and K-4 while in Canoeing competitions of C-1, C-2 and C-4 would be held. Competitions of Single Scull, Double Scull and Coxless Scull would be held in Rowing. The medal ceremony of individual events would be held on daily basis each day. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah would be chief guest during closing ceremony on June 8.
For smooth and successful conduct of the championship, different committees have been constituted to perform the assigned tasks during the event. The committees constituted are organizing committee, reception, accommodation, transport, souvenir, printing and publicity, jury of appeal, and opening and closing committees.
The organizing committee will have 14 members. They include DGP (CID), Dr Ashok Bhan, IGP, Jammu, K Rajendra, IGP, (Headquarters), P L Gupta, IGP (Personnel), Ram Lubhaya, IGP Crime, SM Sahai, IGP, Home Guards, Dilbagh Singh, Director SSG, Raja Aijaz Ali, IGP Security, A K Gupta, IGP Traffic, M A Shah, IGP (Mod), Z H Chisti, IGP, Kashmir, Dr B Srinivas, IGP Police Housing Corporation, Ravinder Kotwal, IGP, Raialways, M A Anjum, and IGP (CID) Farooq Ahmed. Besides, Inspector General of Police (Armed), Sheikh Owais will be the Organizing Secretary of the Committee.
IGP (Armed), Sheikh Owais will head the Opening, Closing and Hospitality Committee, having 11 members and IGP Crime, S M Sahai will head the Invitation, Souvenir and Printing Committee having 6 members.

JK Police to set up water sports academy in Dal Lake

GK NEWS NETWORK

Srinagar, June 1: In its effort to promote water sports in the valley, Jammu Kashmir Police is planning to set up an academy in Dal Lake.
“We are lucky enough that we have got number of water bodies and tap the water sporting potential. We are planning to establish a water sports academy in Dal Lake,” Director General of Police (CID) Dr Ashok Bhan said.
Bhan said the water sports activities will touch heights if the academy comes up in the famous lake, which is one of the main tourist attractions in the state.
“Apart from helping sports activities, this event will also help our tourism industry in its revival,” Dr Bhan said.
“Water sports are among the most flourishing and fast evolving disciplines in the world. The state has produced some world class athletes in water sports who have represented the country at international level,” he added.

appeared in greater Kashmir on June 2 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=2_6_2009&ItemID=12&cat=4

JKP eyes team championship

8th All India Police Water Sports Championship

Srinagar, May 29: For 8th All Police Water Sports Championship to be held from June 2 to 8, hosts JK Police team is preparing hard these days in Dal Lake near Sheri-Kashmir International Convention Centre, here.The team is practicing in two schedules daily. The team includes international kayaking player Zahoor Latoo, national medallist, Parvaiz Ahmad and players who have won medals at national level.The team will participate in Kayaking, Canoeing and Rowing in the event. Around 20 teams, which include CRPF and BSF, are expected to participate.Since 1998 when JK Police formed water sports team it always excelled in All India Police Meet. The team also won laurels in other national and international events.The team has twice won Kayaking team championship in All India Police meet and was runner-up on two occasions. In 2006, the team won team championship winning three gold, one-silver and one-bronze and in 2007 they won one-gold, two-silver and four-bronze medals. For 2009 championship, JK team has advantage being a host team. With less than a week left, the team is practicing hard. “Apart from individual events, we are also good in team events like K-4 and C-4 and we expect to put on good show,” team coach, Farooq Ahmad, told Greater Kashmir.“We practice on the basis of long term plan that we had made six months ago. Till last week we were concerned about building endurance and stamina but now we are concentrating on speed and accuracy,” he said.“We have advantage of being hosts, but still can’t afford to take things easy. We will be competing in front our own people and don’t want to disappoint them. For that reason players are trying hard and are concentrating on every aspect of their game” coach said.Farooq was all praise for his department who provides them every facility through out the year and helped them to be best water sports team in state.“JK Police department is serious about promoting water sports and for that purpose they give us every facility which we want. This year our department brought latest state of the art kayaking, canoeing and rafting boats, which would be used in the championship. With acquiring of boats, our team has become independent and we can practice through out the year,” he said.The team expects inspiring performances from Zahoor Latoo and Parvaiz Ahmad. Zahoor is the only international Kayaking player of the Valley and has won around 40 national medals. In 33rd National Games held in Assam, he won three medals and was only medalist in the individual event from the Valley.Parvaiz has also won numerous medals for the state and his department at national level.

Apeared in Greater Kashmir on may 30-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=30_5_2009&ItemID=11&cat=4

Mizoram beat J&K 3-0

63rd Santosh Trophy
Srinagar, May 28: After playing a goalless first half, Mizoram pulled up their socks as they defeated Jammu and Kashmir 3-0 in their III match in the 63rd Santosh Trophy at the Tiruchirappalli, Chennai on Thursday. Both the teams tried hard to find the back of the net in the first half but failed, as they didn’t get their acts together. After a goalless first half the Mizoram team got their acts together and in the 51st minute took the lead as Lalamunpuia found the back of the net as he was left unmarked. But before that J&K captain Imran was shown red card by the referee and the team was playing with only 10 players. The 1-0 lead and absence of Imran gave Mizoram outfit the much-needed confidence and they started dominating the proceedings. The J&K team’s chances dented in 54th minute when Shahnawaz was also shown red card and J&K team had to play with just nine players. In 76th minute Jeje Laleekhlua got the ball past JK custodian to give Mizoram 2-0 lead. Trailing 2-0, and with just nine players on field JK players started playing an aggressive game. But they relied more in tackles rather than trying to have possession of the ball. The final nail in the coffin came in the 88th minute as H Lalrochama added his name in the scoring sheet to help Mizoram score a 3-0 victory and pocket three points.J&K team’s find of the tournament, Taufeeq Ahmad wasn’t able to play in this match as he was shown red card in previous match. Mansoor Ahmad was also shown red card in the previous match.With this loss, J&K team got out of the Santosh Trophy event. They drew first match with Madhya Pradesh 1-1 while won second match against Pondicherry 1-0.

Apeared in greater Kashmir on May 29-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=29_5_2009&ItemID=13&cat=4

Biscoe School beat SP School in tense final

U-19 Inter-School Football Tournament

Srinagar, May 28: Tyndale Biscoe continued supremacy in the under-19 inter-school football tournament, defeating SP Higher School by 2-0 in the tense final played at Biscoe School ground, here, Thursday.From the start both the teams played attacking football. In initial minutes of first half, SP School dominated and made several attempts to score. The best chance came SP way in 14th minute when strong short from Runabi missed Biscoe post by a fraction.Biscoe made counter attack but were not able to give finishing touch. In first half no goal was scored but the quality of play from both sides was of highest standard.In second half, Biscoe changed tactics and started to attack from both the wings. Their tactics paid off and SP players looked vulnerable to concede goal. In 50th minute due to mistake of SP defender, Biscoe team was able to score first goal. The ball after getting deflection from SP defender went to Owais who sent it rolling over SP goalkeeper’s head into the net to give his team much needed lead.Seeing his team trailing, SP coach started to shout and pressing his players to go for all out attack. In 60th minute, ball touched hand of Biscoe defender inside penalty area and SP bench and players asked for penalty, but referee over-ruled.As the SP was ruing the missed penalty chance, Biscoe made counter-attack and Adnan Me’raj scored second goal. The goal dented morale of SP boys who till that time were playing their heart out.As the final whistle blew, Biscoe team and their fans went into jubilation. They won the under-19 district Srinagar inter-school football title second straight time. In last year’s final, Biscoe had defeated same opponents in a tiebreaker.Expressing his happiness over the win, Biscoe School physical director, Rajesh John said, “It was a big achievement to defend the title. The match was tough as SP is a strong side and tough to beat.”“We played with aggressive approach which benefited us. Though they also played attacking football, but weak defense let them down,” he added.SP School coach said, “Loss is a loss and there are no excuses for that. Biscoe played well and I congratulate them for defending the title successfully.”Principal Biscoe School, Parvaiz Samuel Koul who was the chief guest on the occasion distributed prizes among the winners.

Apeared in Greater Kashmir on May 29-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=29_5_2009&ItemID=14&cat=4

Fozia wins Islamia College women’s cross-country run

Srinagar, May 27: Fozia Majeed won the annual Islamia College women’s cross-country run held from Nishat garden to Fore Shore Road Park, here, on Wednesday. 46 students participated in the event. Sabreena of first year finished second while Nowsheen of second year finished third. Sobiya Yaqoob and Asma Baba finished fourth and fifth respectively. Farhat Jan, Inam Sabha, Bisma Khurshid, Huda and Iqra bagged sixth to tenth positions respectively. The prize distribution ceremony was held at Foreshore Road Park in which position holders were awarded. Speaking on the occasion, the college principal, Dr Saleem Khan said, “I’m delighted to see girls participating in the event in large numbers. Though the number is far less than boy’s event but still is better than last year.” The first three position holders will represent college in the inter-college cross-country run on June 7.

Apeared In Greater Kashmir on May 28-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=28_5_2009&ItemID=7&cat=4

Women’s College MA Road Cycle Race

Ulfat Emerges Winner

Srinagar, May 27: Ulfat Jan of first year emerged as winner in the annual cycle race organized by Government Women’s College MA Road from Nehru Park to Nishat garden here on Wednesday.20 students participated in the race. As the race started, each cyclist tried her best to take lead. Those who were novices were left behind only after paddling first kilometer.After two-kilometers Ulfat, Qurat-ul-Ain and Mehreen Habib were riding neck to neck and it became difficult to guess a winner. Each cyclists tried her best to sprint away but till half-distance they were together. Seeing half the distance has been covered, Ulfat sprinted away from other two cyclists. She maintained the steady speed of 20-kilometers per hour through out the course and at times clocked 40-kilometres.She finished with a comfortable lead of 500-meters. There was close competition between Qurat-ul-Ain and Mehreen for second and third place. In the end, Qurat of first year finished second with a fraction of second ahead of third finisher Mehreen of first year. Shafiya Hassan of first year finished fourth while Bisma Fayaz finished fifth.Later the prize distribution ceremony was held at Nishat garden in which position holders were awarded trophies by the college principal, Zeenat Ara.Speaking on the occasion she said, “Though the number of participants is not that much but still I’m happy that our students are participating in the cycling. The reason for less participation is that most of the girl’s don’t know how to ride bicycle and those who know don’t have racing cycles.”“I saw participants giving away only after riding a few meters and would not like to discourage them. The participation is important and I hope next time they will come out prepared,” she added.The winner Ulfat said, “I’m happy to lift the event. With this win, I’ll get recognition of a champion in the college.”“I practice regularly and I expected to get myself into the first three finishers before race. Qurat and Bisma gave close fight till half way but at that time my regular practice helped me to get better of them. I’ll continue the practice and will try to win inter-college title,” she said.The first three position holders will be representing the college in the inter-college cycle race organized by Directorate of Physical Education and Sports department, Kashmir University on June 5.

Apeared in Greater Kashmir on may 28-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=28_5_2009&ItemID=8&cat=4

Trek With A Difference

Darasgah’s endeavor for children

Srinagar, May 25: A school imparting Quranic teaching to children on Sunday took time off by organizing a day-long trek for its students.Organised by the Darasgah Taleem-ul-Quran Hathi Khan, about 55 students took part as they tread on hilly routes on Zaberwan.They started from the Nishat Garden and were divided into four groups each led by an expert trekker, who knew the trek route. It took them about three hours to scale the top of the ridge.In the trekking route, bushes, rocks, steep slopes to slippery downhill tracks were successfully scaled by young trekkers. The groups were accompanied by the expert trekking guides of J&K Orienteering Association.Before start of the trekking, the guides gave tips to trekkers on dos and don’ts. The trekkers were instructed not to throw polythene and other non-biodegradable waste products en-route.About the event, Riyaz Ahmad, who coordinated the trekking, said, “The trekkers were in the age-group of seven to 50 years. Though up-hill trek was tough which demanded stamina and endurance, the downhill trek was more dangerous. It involved degree of risk as the trek was slippery and there were very little things en-route to support a trekker.” Despite all the adventure, the participants reached safely to the destination, he added.The event was part of Darasgah’s extra curricular activities. “It was for the first time that we organized trekking and we hope to organize more such events in the future” said Darasgah head, Muhammad Ashraf.

Apeared in Greater Kashmir May 26 -2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=26_5_2009&ItemID=3&cat=4

Greater Kashmir knockout football tournament from June 4

Srinagar, May 25: In its bid to promote football in Kashmir, Greater Kashmir is organizing Greater Kashmir knockout football tournament, which will kick-start simultaneously at different venues in Valley from June 4.To finalize the dates and all the arrangements for the mega tournament, the Greater Kashmir management and J&K Football Association office bearers led by its President Zamir Ahmad Thakur and secretary S A Hameed held a meeting at GK office here on Monday.It was decided that the Greater Kashmir knock-out football tournament will commence from June 4 at different venues. The main venue of the tournament in which about 24 teams of Srinagar and 10 teams of other districts will be participating would be the Polo Ground. The final would be played at Bakshi Stadium.After the state level tournament, Greater Kashmir is organizing All India Greater Kashmir football tournament.An organizing committee has been formed which will ensure smooth conduct and facilities for the participating teams.The Editor-in-Chief of Greater Kashmir, Fayaz Ahmad Kaloo will be the Patron-in-Chief while President, Greater Kashmir Communications Pvt Ltd, Abdul Rashid Makhdoomi will be the Patron. Peer Siraj-ud-Din has been appointed as chairman organizing committee while Professor B A Shah will be the organizing secretary. Fayaz Ahmad Sofi has been appointed assistant organizing secretary.Apart from the main body, nine members were also appointed which include, M Siddique, Majid Hyderi, Zulfikar Majid, Aijaz Mir, Tariq Ali Mir, Habib Naqash, Aman Farooq, Mubashir Khan and Imtiyaz Ahmad.A mega tournament, top teams will be fighting it out in the field. JK Bank, JK Police, SRTC, JK Forest, Iqbal Sports, Maharaja Sports will be participating with other teams of Srinagar and other districts.Speaking on the occasion, JKFA President, Zamir Thakur said, “This collaboration between Greater Kashmir and JKFA will be a milestone in the development and promotion of football in the valley. We hail Greater Kashmir for taking this initiative.”

Apeared in Greater Kashmir on May 26-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=26_5_2009&ItemID=7&cat=4

JK plays 1-1 draw against Madhya Pradesh

63RD SANTOSH TROPHY
Srinagar, May 24: In the opening match of cluster III of the 63rd Santosh Trophy, played at the St Joseph College Ground, Tiruchirappalli, Jammu and Kashmir and Madhya Pradesh played a 1-1 draw. Both the teams played attacking game but Madhya Pradesh pulled one back in the 87th minute to split points with J&K. It was Madhya Pradesh that started on an attacking note and had better ball possession in the first half. They could have found the back of the net thrice in the first half itself but they failed to capitalize on the chances that came their way. But it was last year quarterfinalists, who drew the first blood as they found the back of the net in the 42nd minute through Taufeeq. As the match entered into the lemon break with J&K leading by a solitary goal the start of the second half also had J&K keeping the momentum going and attacking at the opponents den. With 15 minutes left for the final whistle, Madhya Pradesh team got their acts together and some good moves had Athoiba Maitai scoring the equalizer in the 87th minute to spoil the dream of J&K to have winning start. But despite playing a 1-1 draw, experts are upbeat about their chances in the event. Former captain of Indian Football Team, Abdul Majeed Kakroo said JK team performed exceptionally well in the first match. “It is a good news for the team that they played a draw in such a harsh climate. They reached Chennai just last night and had to play very next day without any preparation. In coming days, they would get acclimatized with the weather conditions,” Kakroo told Greater Kashmir. “The Madhya Pradesh team had three international footballers and our boys put a brave effort. They dominated the first half, but due to harsh climate and tiredness couldn’t sustain the momentum in second half. In next match which is on May 26 against Pondicherry, I’m hopeful that they would do better,” he said. Another former international footballer, Muhammad Shafi Nari termed the team’s performance satisfactory. “After traveling such a long distance in hot and humid weather, J&K players did exceptionally well. As the team is mixture of young and experienced players, it will be useful combination in coming matches.

Apeared in greater Kashmir on May 25-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=25_5_2009&ItemID=9&cat=4

Wadoo to play in exhibition match

Srinagar, May 23: The valleys international footballer Mehraj-ud-Din Wadoo will play in the exhibition match that is going to be held next week in the Polo ground Srinagar.
In the match former celebrity footballers will be featuring alongside Wadoo and it will be sort of fun exhibition match. This was revealed by Wadoo himself during press conference in which formation of player’s welfare association was announced.
He said, “It has been long time that football lovers of valley have seen me playing in front of them. I missed big opportunity last year by not playing in Santosh trophy due to India team coaching camp.”
“Whenever I was coming here during vacations everyone was asking me when they can see me playing and I had no answer for their questions. Now this exhibition match has given me opportunity to do that” he said.
He said that in the match former celebrities and current top level footballers of valley would be participating and it will be a fun match type with no serious football involved.
“The match would sort of fun match and I am sure spectators would love. We are planning to organize it in central Polo ground next week but that can be clear only after we get required permission from Sports council authorities. These types of matches are being played in outside countries and it will be first time that all celebrity fun-match would be played in valley” he said.

Published in Greater Kashmir on May 24-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=24_5_2009&ItemID=18&cat=4

Valley footballers form association

‘We will work for interests of players along with JKFA’
Srinagar, May 23: For the welfare of state footballers the Football Players Welfare Association has been formed announcement of which was made in a press conference giving at Polo ground here on Saturday.
Valley’s International footballer Mehraj-ud-Din Wadoo will be the president of the association while as another former international footballer Dr Zahoor Haroon will be its general secretary. Sajid Yousuf Dar has been appointed as its Vice-President.
Wadoo himself announced the formation of association the aim of which is to work for the interests of players and to fight for their rights.
Wadoo said, “Number of people have confusion that the Welfare Association has been formed today. It is not true we have been thinking about it from last two years and finally today its announcement has been made. In our state there already existed one players association but from lat three to four years they not doing anything and it is because of that reason we have taken this step.”
“I have went to different countries along with Indian team and my club and everywhere I saw their existed a players association which works for players welfare and fight for their rights. The reason why their football is developed is because they care for their players. Once you give players their mental satisfaction it is only after that they will exert themselves for their clubs and states” he said.
The international footballer said that forming association is not any big thing but to keep it functioning and to achieve for it was formed is the important thing.
“There is lot of misconception among number of players that it is association created by Wadoo but that is not true. We have included almost all the current playing footballers in the association and we are welcoming all footballers from whole state to be part of it. It is only after all regions get equal representation that the actual motive of this association would be achieved” he said.
Wadoo said that till date organization is looking towards the welfare of footballers and the difficulties they are facing.
“Most of the footballers come from poor families and have no other means of earning livelihood. Till date whenever any player suffered injury he was left all alone. In valley clubs and selectors can throughout any player out of team at any time without any reason. At that time it is our association which has to stand up and fight for their rights” he said.
On the occasion Wadoo made it clear that the welfare association is not anti JandK Football Association and wants to work alongside with it for the development of football and welfare of players in state.
“Our association is not anti JKFA and we have nothing against them. We have formed only to fight against the discrimination of players. The other thing we will work for is utilization of talent. Everyone one says that we have talent but no one speaks about how to utilize that. We will select young talented players from different parts of valley and will give them special coaching and among that lot talented ones will be sent outside state.” Wadoo said.
Replying to a question about internal bickering of JKFA he said, “It is internal matter of JKFA and players have nothing to do with that. The JKFA office bearers should always take care that their matters should not harm players. This year the internal bickering of JKFA has cost our many players place in the Santosh trophy squad. Even last year’s captain, Shanawaz Iqbal has been thrown out and our main players like Bilal, Rizwan who have shown their talent at national level are not in team. This should not happen and players should not be involved in matters of JKFA.”
When asked about JK Santosh trophy squad he said, “The squad that has been sent is inexperienced, if they are going for only participation then it is good but if they want to perform then they should send our full strength team. As for myself is concerned I am suffering from groin injury due to which I could make it into the squad.”
Among others who were present on the occasion were East Bengal club player Waseem Feroze, Sajid Yousuf, Hilal Ahmad Rather and veteran footballer Muhammad Ismail Chapri.

Published in Greater Kashmir on May 24-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=24_5_2009&ItemID=17&cat=4

DPS organizes mountain run

Srinagar, May 23: The Delhi Public School, Athwajan, Saturday organized mountain running for its students from Botanical Garden to Pari Mahal here. 1300 students from class 3rd to 9th in both boys and girls’ categories participated in the run. The participants were first instructed to climb uphill upto Pari Mahal entrance and then return back downhill to Botanical Garden entrance where from the run started. Each age group was flagged off separately in order to minimize the chance of injuries that happen in the mass start events due to rush of participants. The terrain was so tough that most of the participants gave up only after having run couple of hundred meters. Instead of running, they walked. In class 9th boy’s category, Shaharyar of 9E finished first while Mamoon of 9B and Suhaib Bashir of 9D finished second and third respectively. In class 9th girl’s category, Sahar Banu of 9B finished while Mehak of 9B and Namis of 9D finished second and third respectively. In class 6th boy’s category, Umeeb of 6B and Naveed of 6C finished first and second respectively. Third place was shared by Tabish of 6C, Zaid of 6C and Jivjot of 6B. In class 7th category, Fatima of 7B, Wasiq of 7H and Aamir of 7F finished first, second and third respectively while Wasiq Ashraf of 8th C, Faizan of 8th B and Hazin of 8th D finished first, second and third respectively in class 8th category. In class 5th category, Mehak of 5A, Shafaq of 5F finished first and second respectively. Third place was shared by Dawar of 5H and Yawar of 5F respectively. In class 4th category there was no clear winner and the first place was shared between Uznaim of 4E and Saliq of 4H. Second place went to Khateeb of 4H while third place was shared between Saqib Mushtaq of 4G and Reyan of 4H. In class 3rd category, Muhammad Asif of 3A and Muqadus of 3G shared first place between them while second place was shared between Gibran of 3E and Shahzadi of 3E. Third place went to Asif of 3C. The run was flagged off by the principal, DPS, KK Sharma.

Published in Greater Kashmir on May 24 -2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=24_5_2009&ItemID=21&cat=4

Fitness level of JK players is perfect: Physio

Srinagar, May 22: The fitness level of JK Santosh trophy players is perfect and they can withstand the extreme climatic conditions of Chennai. “Our players and fit and the harsh climatic conditions will not trouble them. They would be able to cope with changes that are associated with moving from high altitude area to low lying area,” JK team physiotherapist, Ashiq Hussain, told Greater Kashmir. Ashiq has done masters in physiotherapy and has also done special training in sports medicine. Last year, he got special training in cardio rehabilitation from Apollo Hospital Ahmedabad. “This cardio rehabilitation is useful in treating players if they get any cardio problem during play. In recent years, number of players died during matches as the teams had no service of trained cardio rehabilitation,” he said. Ashiq started his association with football four years back with Eid Gah Football Academy and last year was appointed as Physio of JK Santosh Trophy team. Impressed with his work, J&K Football Association again appointed him Physio this year. Apart from that, he has also been associated with JK Forest team, which is considered among fittest team in the state. Ashiq is well aware about the conditions that JK players will face in the tournament and for that he has given special attention to players. “I know what will be the conditions there and I know how to keep players fit. During coaching camp I worked hard with players by giving them special weight training and maintaining the glucose level,” he said. The 63rd Santosh trophy is being held in Tamil Nadu from May 23 and 31 teams from all over the country would participate.

published in Greater Kashmir on May-23-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=23_5_2009&ItemID=5&cat=4

‘We’ll easily qualify from our pool’

ASHIQ MUSHTAQ

Age: 22

Position: Defender

Teams played: YMCA, Iqbal Sports-A, C and JK Forest

Employer Team: JK Forest

A highly talented defender, Ashiq plays every match with complete dedication. Ashiq started playing football with Iqbal Sports-C where he got basic coaching. After two years, Ashiq was promoted from Iqbal Sports-C to Iqbal Sports –A which is super-division league side. For Iqbal Sports, his performance in the league tournaments was good that prompted Forest to select him. From last five years, he has been an integral part of Forest, which is reckoned among top three teams of J&K.Ashiq has represented state in two under-16 national tournaments in Uttranchal and Bhopal. He has also represented state in under-19 tournament twice in Basti, Uttar Pradesh and Banaras. In Banaras national, he was captain of the JK team.Ashiq has represented his employer team four times in the prestigious All India Forest Meet and performance of JK Forest team was good in all the events. They lifted the trophy once and remained runner-up on three occasions.Mumbai and Chennai based clubs offered Ashiq to play for their team but he refused due to personal reasons. “I don’t regret my decision as my family comes first,” he said.About the Santosh Trophy and performance of JK team, he said, “The tournament is being played in Chennai were weather won’t be favourable. Moreover, it is coastal area and we come from high altitude area for that reason we will find it very difficult for first couple of days.”“I think we will easily qualify from our pool which include teams like Madhya Pradesh, Pudicherry and Mizoram. Out of three teams, only Mizoram is a strong side that we will find difficult to beat,” he said.

Published in Greater Kashmir on May 22-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=22_5_2009&ItemID=6&cat=4

‘We are a well-knit unit’

KHALID QAYOOM

Age: 21

Position: Midfield

Teams played: Gazi Sports, Safalloo, Food and Supplies, SRTC and JK Bank

Employer Team: JK Bank

At 21, Khalid has represented almost all the top teams of J&K. It speaks volumes about his talent and selectors have rewarded him by giving him place in JK Santosh Trophy squad. Khalid started his career from ML Higher Secondary School Nawakadal. Though he couldn’t participate in school national tournaments, he participated in inter-school and junior national tournaments, which helped him to groom.He represented state in under-16 junior national at Uttranchal in which JK team was able to qualify from north zone for zonal level tournament held at Goa. He also represented state in under-19 national tournament at Malerkotla, Punjab. JK qualified for semifinal and Khalid scored two goals in the event.He has represented Kashmir University twice in inter-university football tournament in Hoshiarpure and Patiala.Khalid started paying in league tournaments from Gazi Sports and then he moved to Safalloo, which is A-division side. Seeing his talent, Food and Supplies selected him and for one full season he Khalid played for them. The renowned team of the state, SRTC selected him and it was in SRTC where he got recognition. He mesmerized everyone by his quality play. Last year number one team of the state JK Bank inducted him into their squad.Khalid is happy with his selection and is hopeful that he will put a good show in the coveted Santosh Trophy event.“The selectors have shown faith on me and I’ll do my best in the tournament. I’ve only one thing in mind that is to keep my self focused on the job given,” he said.About the team, he said, “We are a well-knit unit and it would prove beneficial for the team. I’m optimistic that JK team would do well in the event.”

published In Greater Kashmir on May 22- 2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=22_5_2009&ItemID=7&cat=4

Shabir wins Islamia College cycle race

Srinagar, May 20: Shabir Ahmad Akhoon emerged winner of annual cycle race of Islamia College, held from Nehru Park to Naseem Bagh via Fore Shore road on Wednesday. The event was flagged off by the principal Islamia College, Dr Saleem Khan, and 107 cyclists participated in it. From the start Shabir took lead and maintained that through out. His closest rival Umer Nabi tried hard to catch him (Shabir) but could not match his speed. Shabir maintained the constant speed of 40-kilometers per hour and at finish line he clocked above 50-kilometers. He finished first with a timing of 22:32:39 with comfortable lead of one-kilometer against second finisher Umer Nabi. He finished with the timing of 24:30:92. Mudasir finished third with the timing of 26:30:95. Nisar Ahmad and Zahid Ahmad finished fourth and fifth respectively. Altaf Samad, Basim Dar, Aamir Feroze, Shanawaz Hussain and Sheikh Faheem finished sixth, seventh, eight, ninth and tenth respectively. Expressing happiness over the victory Shabir said, “I’m delighted to regain the championship. Last year I finished second and I desperately wanted to win this time and leave the college on winning note.” Shabir is the only cyclist of the state who has won medal at national level and he has been dominating the cycling arena from last five years. He has won 100-kilometer Tour-de-Kashmir cycling event twice and has also won numerous other cycling events.

published in Greater Kashmir on May 21- 2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=21_5_2009&ItemID=6&cat=4

Mega cricket event to be held from mid July

Kashmir Premier League

Srinagar, May 20: A cricket carnival, Kashmir Premier League, Twenty20 cricket tournament would be held in various districts of the Valley from mid-July.Aimed at exploring the enormous talent of the Valley cricketers, the mega event would be played on the pattern of Indian Premier League. The registration process is currently on and the event is expected to kick-start by mid-July. Launched by Kashmir Newsline, a Srinagar based English daily, the tournament has evoked widespread response. “Valley has got tremendous cricketing talent, but unfortunately that gets unnoticed as players get a few opportunities to show their talent. Though J&K Cricket Association organizes number of tournaments, its reach is not that wide and most of players are left behind,” said, KPL Chief Executive Officer, Shabir Hussain Buchh.“The KPL would not only help the budding cricketers, but would also provide a platform in finding out potential cricketers. We’ll shortlist talented players and would arrange coaching for them in cricket academies outside state,” Buchh said.The tournament is yet to start and organizers have already received tremendous response from hundreds of teams from far-flung areas. The matches would be held in all districts of the Valley and from each district 10 teams will qualify for the main event to be held in Srinagar.“The matches will be held in best available grounds and the facility for teams participating would be of highest standards,” he said.Asked about the involvement of JKCA in the event, Shabir said, “We don’t want to organize it on our own. We want to work along with JKCA and for that we have already sent them a proposal. The event requires manpower and expertise.”As part of its promotional input, KPL has already registered a website and is planning to bring out a monthly magazine Kashmir Premier League to cover the KPL matches. “At KPL website (www.kashmirpremierleague.com), our prospective finds would be projected so that they are noticed not only regionally, but globally as well. This would indeed give our youth a chance to make it to the national and international levels,” he added. The event has already attracted number of sponsors, “People here are ready to promote sports activities. Number of corporate houses have contacted us and are ready to sponsor the event,” he said.

Published Greater Kashmir on May 21-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=21_5_2009&ItemID=7&cat=4

‘Outside teams are not better than us’

IMRAN RAFIQUE

Age: 27

Position: Stopper

Teams played: YMCA, National Sports Dalgate, JK Forest, JK SRTC and JK Bank

Employer team: JK BANK

Hailing from Dalgate area of Srinagar, Imran started his career from National Sports Dalgate. Later he moved to YMCA, which was reckoned as top football club of the Valley then. Players like Mehraj-ud-Din Wadoo, Ishfaq Ahmad and Sajid Dar were playing in YMCA that time. From YMCA he moved to JK Forest, JK SRTC and later to his present team JK Bank. His performance always kept on improving and he brought a change in his game with each passing day. Imran didn’t participate in too many national level tournaments at school level because of injury. But still he played in two Subrotto Mukherjee national championships. With JK Bank, he has played in four Durand Cups, which can be termed as great achievement in the backdrop of historic importance that is attached with the tournament. He has also played alongside with JK Bank in B-Division and third Division national leagues. He has represented state in three Santosh Trophy events at Manipur, Faridabad and J&K. Imran has a good physique and height, which a defender requires, and he also has got good heading which a defender needs to clear ball from the box. Only thing he lacks, experts say, is man-to-man marking and if he improves it, he can be a better play. Imran has been appointed as captain of the team. There would be lot of pressure on him due to the captaincy burden. Imran says, “I thank JKFA for showing faith on me and giving me the responsibility of commanding team in the prestigious event. We have to prove a point we are capable of playing for the state.” “Outside teams are not better than us. Only thing we lack is experience and exposure. JK players have a lot of talent, but they need good guidance and coaching,” he said. About his own performance, Imran said,” I’ll give 100 percent and try to bring glory for the state.”

Published in Greater Kashmir on May 21 -2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=21_5_2009&ItemID=8&cat=4

JK to host All India Police Water Sports event from June 2

Srinagar, May 19: Jammu and Kashmir Police is hosting the prestigious 8th All India Police Water Sports Championship-2009 from June 2, in which police sports personnel from across the country would compete in the disciplines of Kayaking, Canoeing and Rowing.This is for the second time that J&K Police is hosting the event being held under the aegis of All India Police Water Sports Control Board. This was stated at a high level meeting held here today at CID Headquarters to finalize the arrangements for holding the championship. J&K Police has always been on the forefront of promoting adventure sports, especially, water sports because of the natural advantages in the State, has in terms of its mountains, beautiful river valleys and vast expanses of water bodies. Apart from creating a colorful spectacle for the locals as well as the visiting sports persons and tourists, this prestigious event would also contribute to the promotion of water sports in the country. The championship will provide an excellent opportunity to the participants to demonstrate their professional skills and also create brotherhood among different states and central police forces personnel.During the meeting, it was disclosed that 5-day championship would be inaugurated on June 2 at Dal Lake and will conclude on June 6.For smooth and successful conduct of the event, different committees have been constituted. These are organizing committee, reception, accommodation, transport, souvenir, printing and publicity, jury of appeal, and opening and closing committees. The organizing committee will have 14 members. They include DGP (CID), Dr. Ashok Bhan, IGP, Jammu, K. Rajendra, IGP, (Headquarters), P. L. Gupta, IGP (Personnel), Ram Lubhaya, IGP Crime, S. M. Sahai, IGP, Home Guards, Dilbagh Singh, Director SSG, Raja Aijaz Ali, IGP Security, A K Gupta, IGP Traffic, M A Shah, IGP (Mod), Z H Chisti, IGP, Kashmir, Dr B Srinivas, IGP Police Housing Corporation, Ravinder Kotwal, IGP, Railways, M A Anjum, and IGP (CID), Farooq Ahmed. Besides, Inspector General of Police (Armed), Sheikh Owais will be the Organizing Secretary of the Committee.The Jury of Appeal will have 6 members. They are DGP (CID), IGP (Armed), J&K, Join Director IB, Principal PTS, Manigam, one member each from Rowing Association and Kayaking & Canoeing Association.IGP Jammu Zone K. Reajendra will be the Chairman of the reception and accommodation committee at Jammu and IGP Kashmir, Dr. B. Srinivas will be the Chairman of a similar committee at Srinagar. The committee at Jammu will have 12 members and at Srinagar 10 members.IGP, Security, A. K. Gupta will head the transport and security committee which will have 10 members.Media Relations and Publicity Committee will be headed by IGP (CID), Farooq Ahmed, which will have 6 members. IGP (Armed), Sheikh Owais will head the Opening, Closing and Hospitality Committee, having 11 members and IGP Crime, Mr. S. M. Sahai will head the Invitation, Souvenir and Printing Committee having 6 members.

Published in Greater Kashmir on May 20-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=20_5_2009&ItemID=3&cat=4

JK Santosh Trophy squad leaves for Tamil Nadu

Srinagar, May 19: The 19-member JK squad left for Tamilnadu on Tuesday to participate in 63rd Santosh Trophy tournament to be held from May 23. 31 teams from across India would participate in the coveted event. The JK team comprise of two goalkeepers, seven defenders, seven midfielders and four forwards. Imran Rafique is the captain of the team. In the forward team will be lead by Valley’s international footballer, Ishfaq Ahmad but he will join the team from second match. The other three forwards include Zubair Ahmad of JK Bank, Altaf Ahmad of Maharaja Sports and Taufeeq Ahmad of JK Bank. Midfield comprise of highly talented players like Tameem Ahmad of Iqbal Sports, Shahnawaz of JK Bank, Gulzar Ahmad of JK Police, Satwinder Singh of JK Bank, Arun Pal Singh of Engineers club, Khalid Qayoom and Wasim Yousuf both of JK Bank. The defence of JK team will be lead by its skipper Imran Rafique of JK Bank, Hasib of JK bank, Ashiq Mushtaq of JK Forest, Sameer Ahmad of JK Forest, Tahir Ghulam of Food and Supplies, Danny Bhurat of Churchill Brothers and Mansoor Ahmad of HAL Bangalore.There are two goalkeepers in the team which include vice-captain, Vikram Jeet Singh and Arshad Ali of JK Forest. Coach Intikhab Aalam, manager, BA Basharat, and physiotherapist, Dr Ashiq Hussain, accompany the team. JK has been kept in Cluster III along with Mizoram, Madhya Pradesh and Pudicherry and they will play their all group matches at St Joseph College, Tiruchirappalli. In first match, they will lock horns with Madhya Pradesh on May 24 while on May 26 they will take on Pudicherry. In their last group match, JK will be against Mizoram.

publihsed in greaterkashmir on May 20-2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=20_5_2009&ItemID=4&cat=4

Midfielder par excellence

GULZAR AHMAD

Age: 23

Position: Midfielder

Teams played: Royal Sports, Maharaja and JK Police

Employer team: JK Police

After missing to find his place in last year’s Santosh Trophy, Gulzar Ahmad has found his name in the team for this season. Gulzar started his career when he joined Royal Sports Club Gojwara. Then, he joined Maharaja Sports where he hogged the limelight. Finally Gulzar was selected for JK Police team and during last four years, he is performing brilliantly. The JK Police team banks on his brilliant performance. For any team to be stronger, it needs to have strong midfield. The strength of the team relies on strong mid-fielders who changes course pf a game any moment. Gulzar leads the strong midfield of JK Police. He has achieved success in the last few years and today he is reckoned among the top midfielders of the state. Being a new face in JK football, Gulzar has played in less national tournaments than his counterparts, but still the tournaments in which he represented the state, he got praise from the former players and his coaches. He has so far participated in two under-21 national tournaments, which were held in Uttranchal and Ambala respectively. He has also represented JK Police in various national level tournaments and also in three All India Police Meets. Apart from strengthening the midfield, Gulzar has the knack of scoring goals at crucial junctions. It is this ability that makes him one of the important players in J&K Santosh Trophy team. So far Gulzar has not played in any Santosh Trophy tournament and this is going to be his first appearance. Gulzar is the player who always surprises the opponents which makes him different. He has good physique that makes him perfect midfielder. About the tournament, Gulzar says, “I was expecting my selection last year for the tournament but in the final list I was dropped. It is going to be my first Santosh Trophy tournament and it is a dream come true for me as every aspiring footballer wants to represent the state in this prestigious event.” “The pressure is high but with my hard work I can overcome that. As I’ve done in past, I can do it now. I only concentrate on my work and that is the reason I’ve always performed well” Gulzar added.

Published in Greater Kashmir on May 20 -2009 http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=20_5_2009&ItemID=5&cat=4

‘I’m hopeful we would qualify from our pool’

VIKRAM JEET SINGH

Age: 29

Position: Goalkeeper

Teams played: Vijay Club, TATA Football Academy and JK Bank

Employer team: JK Bank

Vikram can rightly be termed as number one goalkeeper of present J&K team. He started his career with Vijay Club Jammu and was later adopted by India’s renowned academy, TATA Football Academy Jamshedpur. At TATA Academy he played from 1995 to 1998. During those years, nobody in JK knew about him, but once he started to play in the state, everyone was puzzled with his talent. He became instant hit among football fans and players. With TATA Academy, Vikram also toured to Norway, Denmark and Germany. It was tour of one month and during that period Academy played matches against the clubs of respective countries. During that tour, Vikram also got offer from the FC Koln Club of Germany but he couldn’t play due to personal reasons. After coming back to J&K, he was offered a job by JK Bank and since then he is an integral part of the team. In state, Vikram has added new dimensions to goalkeeping. He showed new skills and techniques, which he learnt at TATA Academy. As a player, Vikram has represented state on one occasion in under-19 level at Manipur and in under-21 level he played in three national championships at Jammu, Mandiya and Ambala. In Jammu national, J&K was winner and in Mandiya national, Vikram was captain of the team. He has also played in Durand Cup and other national level tournaments like B-Division, third Division, LG Cup and All India Bank Meet. Experts say that Vikram has good capabilities of a goalkeeper. He uses his technique and art of goalkeeping that he had learnt at Tata Academy. As a goalkeeper, he has got good control over ball, excellent reaction time, good gripping and also has got the ability to judge the pace of opposite player which goalkeeper requires in tackling. He is considered as big match player and has always showed his worth in important matches. As a person he is sober, but on field he is aggressive. Vikram has been appointed as vice-captain of the team and he hopes that team will do well in the tournament. “We have talented players in the team and I’m hopeful we would qualify from our pool,” he said.

published in Greater Kashmir on http://greaterkashmir.com/full_story.asp?Date=20_5_2009&ItemID=6&cat=4