The youth of Balochistan have little access to any form of recreational activities such as sports. This is extremely discouraging for those who want to participate in sports and often pushes youngsters into unfavourable activities. Across the province, teenagers can be seen playing cricket and football in the streets, but they are seldom given any opportunities to showcase their talents. Most educational institutes do not provide any facilities or arrange tournaments in which students can participate.
Although many national tournaments are held for cricket, football, tennis, etc, coaches and team management rarely recruit players from the province. No training or coaching camps are set up anywhere in the province because of which players lack proper training, diet, and game sense. Therefore, even those who can travel to other parts of the country for trials are hardly selected. A large proportion of the youth regularly participates in football tournaments organised by private companies. However, these tournaments are not enough for players brimming with passion and talent.
Now that FIFA has lifted its ban on Pakistan Football Federation, the federation must arrange tournaments in the province and provide players with proper coaching facilities. Similarly, Pakistan Cricket Board must acknowledge the talent in Balochistan and recruit players and prepare them for local and international tournaments. Educational institutes should also encourage students to engage in recreational activities and arrange competitions to motivate students.
JOSH BALOCH
KECH
