Bon Voyage: U-17 footballers from Meghalaya headed to Paris

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMarch 23, 2025

A send-off ceremony for the U-17 boys’ State Football Team – Myngken Christian Higher Secondary School, Bhoirymbong, was held on Saturday, at Hotel Center Point, Shillong, for their participation in the 2nd Edition of the Indo-French Football Tournament, scheduled to be held in Paris, France, from March 24 to 30, 2025.

Speaking at the event, Hamlet Dohling, advisor to the Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, recalled the skills, techniques the players displayed when the boys faced the Manipur team at the 63^rd Subroto Cup.

He said, “It is because of this quality that you have that you are getting this opportunity to participate in the Indo-French Football tournament in Paris. When you are in a foreign country, the most important part is to have discipline.”

He observed that the growth of football in the state of Meghalaya begins at the grassroots level.

Dohling who is also the president of Meghalaya Football Association said, “And we also have a thought with us, that if we get the support from the government, even Meghalaya Football Association will also come up with a football academy so that in the future, we will get good and quality players.”

He encouraged the players to come back to the state bringing home the champion’s trophy.

Dikki D. Shira, Director of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department said, “Now, it is up to the team to learn and to get exposure, not only to football, but even to the culture, the way of life.”

The team was invited to participate in the 2nd edition of the Indo-French Football Tournament by the Subroto Mukherjee Sports Education Society, after their commendable performances during the competition, held last year.

For the 2nd edition of the Indo-French Football Tournament, all relevant expenses shall be borne by the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs. The touring team shall comprise 16 players (including two goalkeepers), one coach, one manager, and one representative from the state. The team shall also have an opportunity to train with the club Olympic Lyonnais, one of the most prominent French football clubs.