KSA-Ambitious Football Academy launched; Dias to be head coach

The Karnataka Sporting Association (KSA) has launched the KSA-Ambitious Football Academy to scout the local talent and provide them training.
The announcement was made here at a press briefing by KSA President Dr P V Shetty and former India football player Steven Dias.
Dias will don the coach's hat and will train the children under various age-groups, including Under-8, Under-13 and Under 15, it was announced.
Dias, who will be assisted by Vijith Shetty and Santosh Koli, said the kids initially will be trained thrice a a week.
"I started my career at this KSA ground and KSA has always supported me. So I wanted to scout some good talent and help them make a career. We will work on their basics," said the 33-year-old Dias who played for Mumbai FC in the I-League.

He said after the camp 20 kids from the three age groups would be selected for the Academy.

The player also said the successful conduct of the FIFA U-17 World Cup in India has helped in increasing the popularity of the sport.
"Now after the World Cup, where ever I go parents bring their kid, and are taking interest in football. After the World Cup, everyone has started knowing that there is football in India and Mumbai. People have started taking interest in football which is a good thing," Dias told reporters.
"I have recently done my (coaching) licence. I always wanted to get into coaching and be with football," he added.

Dias said he had not announced his decision to retire, adding "may be I will announce soon.