Efforts to Revive Veteran Football Gain Momentum in Peshawar Meeting

Efforts to Revive Veteran Football Gain Momentum in Peshawar Meeting

PESHAWAR: An important meeting in Peshawar marked a significant step towards revitalizing veteran football in Pakistan, as former national and international footballers from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa convened to establish a unified platform and organize competitive football events.

The gathering, chaired by former Pakistan Football team captain Ghulam Sarwar teddy, included notable figures such as Amjad Chaudhry, Arshad Khan, and Malik Hidayatul Haque, alongside officials and former players from districts including Malakand, Dir, Kohat, Charsadda, Dera Ismail Khan, Bannu, Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera, Chitral, and Hazara.

The primary objective of the meeting was to form the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Veteran Football Association, with plans underway for similar initiatives in Punjab, Balochistan, Sindh, Azad Kashmir, and Islamabad.

Ghulam Sarwar Teddy emphasized the necessity of practical measures not only to rejuvenate interest within the veteran football community but also to provide a platform for former players to showcase their skills and stay actively involved in the sport of their choice.

Essential to this effort is the establishment of provincial and district-level organizations tasked with organizing regular veteran football matches and tournaments, ensuring continuity through strategic planning, coordination, and promotion.

Enhancing existing football facilities and developing new ones tailored to experienced players were highlighted as critical steps, ensuring these venues are equipped to support training and matches effectively.

Seeking sponsorships from local businesses and national corporations is crucial to fund events, purchase equipment, and maintain facilities essential for sustaining the initiative.

Addressing the meeting, former national team captain Arshad Khan underscored the importance of media engagement through platforms such as local newspapers, sports channels, and social media to boost visibility and attract wider participation and audience, thereby elevating the popularity of veteran football.

Following the success in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, similar meetings are planned across other regions to gather former footballers and devise localized strategies.

Malik Hidayat-ul-Haq affirmed that this nationwide endeavor signifies a commitment to fostering a robust network of veteran football activities, uniting former players, and strengthening Pakistan’s football culture.

The proactive measures outlined during the Peshawar meeting represent a pivotal moment in the effort to revive veteran football nationwide.

Implementation of these strategies and expanded efforts hold promise in creating a vibrant environment for veteran footballers, celebrating their contributions, and ensuring their integral role within the football community.

The path forward appears promising, with the collaboration of veteran football associations, former players, sponsors, and media poised to lead Pakistan’s veteran football to a successful revival, rekindling the glory of past eras and inspiring future generations.