Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh managing director N. Bangara Raju on Wednesday said an exclusive sports school for tribal youth would be established at Araku Valley in Visakhapatnam district. An extent of 26 acres was earmarked for the purpose, he said.
Addressing the media here, Mr. Bangara Raju said the State government, realising the importance of nurturing the inherent sporting talent among the tribal population, decided to offer them scientific and methodical coaching to help them make a mark in the sporting arena.
“We have chosen Araku Valley, as it is a high-altitude place and suitable for training. Our aim is to train them for five years and later shift them to academies for bigger challenges.”
Nearly 313 talented boys and girls from Classes V to IX, who were short-listed from all the 13 districts of the State, took part in the final selection process organised at Srikakulam for two days from October 31. Local MLAs, Special Chief Secretary L.V. Subrahmanyam, and tribal officials witnessed the process. “We have selected 150 person who will be enrolled into the sports school for further training under the guidance of experienced coaches,” Mr. Bangara Raju said. He said the selected athletes would also be imparted education in a residential set-up.
“SAAP will be providing the necessary equipment,” he said.