Bangalore celebrated AFC Grassroots Day on May 15 along with 20 other districts across India by conducting a festival for 100 footballers in the age group from six to 12 years at the HAL ground.

The festival was conducted by Ravi Babu (AFC – B License Coach) and grassroots leader trained under FIFA and AIFF grassroots programmes in association with Roots Football School. 21 volunteer coaches consisting of football players, coaches and enthusiasts ensured in the smooth conduct of the 2 hour long festival aimed at getting kids to play and enjoy football from a younger age.

Twenty grassroots festivals are being organised by the All India Football Federation across the country to celebrate the AFC Grassroots Year 2013, themed “Let’s Play!” and Grassroots Day which falls on May 15. AFC hopes to promote and emphasise that football was accessible and socially beneficial to everyone and that a strong foundation would allow players to progress to the elite level.

The following are the key principles of Grassroots Philosophy: Everybody has the opportunity to play; Football is everywhere; There is no discrimination; Action must be dynamic, simple, exciting and rewarding; Safety is a priority; Players come first; Fair play must be respected; Relationships, teamwork and skill development are key components.

About Roots Football School
An initiative of Game On Sports Management Pvt. Ltd. to provide professional training at the grassroots’ level. Roots FS currently operates 2 after school centers in Bangalore training over 200 kids between the age of 5-21 years. Roots FS follows a structured programme implemented by professional coaches.
Ravi Babu (AFC – B License) is the head coach and the coaching staff consists AFC licensed coaches, ex TFA cadets and other state and national level players among others.