Coaches stress on importance of confidence and freedom

The final trials of Airtel Rising Stars 2013-14, an under-16 soccer talent hunt, got off to a promising start on day one with 23 selected participants training under Manchester United coaches at Mapusa's Duler Stadium in Goa today.
The camp marks the culmination of an intensive six-month talent hunt conducted in seven cities with the support of state and district football associations.
On Day one of the two-day trials that were conducted at the stadium and in an indoor arena, the coaches stressed on the importance of confidence and freedom in football.
They also briefed participants on playing their individual game, and displaying their distinguishing strengths and expertise. The entire group was divided into four teams of five players each and 5 vs 5 conditioned games were held, where coaches tested players with different scenarios and conditions to test the techniques and skills of the players.

There were also classroom sessions, before the players were shown a presentation on what it takes to be a Manchester United players, narrated by Ryan Giggs.
The afternoon session stressed on dribbling skills, shooting skills and included a workshop for goalkeepers, after which they played a 11-a-side 20 mins game to conclude.

The players will be judged on technical and tactical skill, physical and mental strength, social skills, on field behaviour, communication, discipline, enthusiasm and fair play.
The camp is being overseen by Manchester United coaches Lami Sonola, Kecvin O'Connell and Adam Hilton, who will choose 11 young footballers to train at a week-long camp at the Manchester United Soccer School in the United Kingdom.

The unique format of the initiative ensured that each player at the camp gets equal opportunity and time to demonstrate his skills, overseen by officially certified and renowned coaches.
Started by Bharti Airtel in association with Manchester United, one of the best soccer clubs in the world, it screens young footballers across India for sporting capabilities and skillsets based on their performance in tests, real time match simulations etc.