Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 14 February 2024
The Sports Authority of India’s (SAI) STC in Car Nicobar, under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, has initiated its residential programme starting February 1st, 2024, at the state-of-the-art Modern Sports Complex in Lapathy. This initiative marks a significant step towards nurturing budding talents in the fields of Cycling, Weightlifting, and Athletics.
In the upcoming weeks of February, the centre will host selection trials at Chowra Island, aiming to identify promising athletes to enroll in the programme. The residential setup offers a comprehensive support system, including free lodging and boarding facilities, provision of sports kits and equipment, coverage of competition expenses, educational support, and other miscellaneous needs.
The inaugural batch, comprising 23 enthusiastic trainees, has already commenced their journey under the flagship STC scheme. These individuals will benefit from a holistic sports ecosystem, designed to foster their 360-degree development. The programme includes access to world-class coaching from expert mentors, utilisation of national-level training infrastructure, tailored sports nutrition plans, and top-notch lodging facilities.
The coaching staff at SAI STC Car Nicobar boasts a stellar track record, having produced numerous international sportspersons. Among them, Mr. V.B. Sutar, the Cycling coach, received the prestigious Best Coach award in Trivandrum in 2020. Similarly, Mr. C. Rajan, the Weightlifting Coach, was honoured with the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’s Best Coach award in 2018, showcasing the caliber of coaching talent nurturing athletes in the region.
Expressing gratitude, the Assistant Director of SAI, in charge of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, extended appreciation to the District administration, Nicobar District, Tribal Council, NGSA, and School administration for their unwavering support. Their collaborative efforts played a pivotal role in the successful conduct of the selection trials, spanning several weeks.
The launch of the residential programme at SAI STC Car Nicobar signals a promising opportunity for aspiring athletes to realize their full potential, backed by world-class infrastructure and expert guidance.