Rs 15cr sanctioned for Sambalpur football academy upgrade

Sambalpur: CM Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday said the state govt is committed to transforming the Sambalpur football academy into a world-class sports hub, as he reviewed the facilities during a day-long visit to the district. To upgrade infrastructure, the state has sanctioned Rs 15 crore.Majhi visited the academy and symbolically sowed grass seeds on one of the grounds. He said the institution has carved a distinct place in Odisha’s sporting landscape, and has contributed significantly to nurturing talent with national-level recognition.Highlighting its trajectory since its inception in 2007 under the leadership of MLA Jayanarayan Mishra, the CM said the academy has built a strong legacy.Officials said the funds will be used to develop three FIFA-standard football grounds and two futsal courts, enabling year-round training, including during monsoon. The academy already has facilities such as a gymnasium, swimming pool and hostel.Majhi said the govt is also organising the annual CM Trophy Football Tournament and will identify promising under-14 players for advanced training at the academy.Expressing confidence in its future, he said the govt would extend all support to develop it into a centre of excellence and model football academy in the country.Later, Majhi attended the concluding ceremony of an RSS event at Sason, and participated as a chief guest in the All India Sambalpur Cup Kabaddi Tournament in the city.