Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (JS)
Mangaluru, May 29: "Parents play a vital role in children choosing cricket as their preferred sport. Nearly 80 percent of the children's evolution into cricketers is dependent on family support and other aspects," said former cricketer Javagal Srinath.
He was speaking at a felicitation and certificate distribution ceremony held at hotel Moti Mahal here on Friday May 29. The programme was organized by the Dakshina Kannada Cricket Association.
Srinath further advised, "The first thing parents need to do is teach their children the importance of education. Education and cricket do not have any connection. Education will ensure a secure future. Not everyone gets a chance to play for India as there are only 11 players in a team.
"When children play cricket it increases their team spirit and social bonding with others. If a child plays cricket for two hours everyday it will build his personality. Cricket is highly based on cognitive skills. Parents should make sure that education and sports blend together. Rejection in any sports is important as it triggers you to achieve more, so take it in a positive spirit," he said.
"There are 800 members in the Dakshina Kannada Cricket Association but I think there should be at least 900 players. A Club is very important as it builds the loyalty of players. I thank the organizers for having me here," he added.
Former mayor and president of Dakshina Kannada Cricket Association, Mangaluru Mahabala Maarla welcomed the gathering.
Dr Shantharam Shetty, vice-chancellor of NITTE University said, "Srinath has already talked about how one can be a good sportsman and give equal importance to education. About 40 years ago, matches used to be held at Nehru Maidan and there was great support. We often tell Anil Kumble is from our district but he became a cricketer only after going to Bengaluru. We are ahead in many sectors but why not in cricket? There is a need for good infrastructure for cricket. I request the sports minister to build a cricket stadium here in Mangaluru under his leadership."
Abhayachandra Jain, minister for sports and youth services said, "Parents should support their children if they are interested in playing cricket. Children do not have a steady mind so parents need to guide them. Now interest in cricket has reduced and parents want their children to have a good and secure future, so they enroll their children into professional courses. Along with education, sports is also essential. I will do my best to build a cricket stadium in Mangaluru as suggested by Dr Shantharam Shetty. I congratulate all the parents for attending this programmed in such a huge number."
Javagal Srinath was felicitated on the occasion and certificates were distributed to children who participated in the cricket coaching organized by the Association.
MLC Ivan D'Souza, Vinay Hegde, chancellor, NITTE university, Sadananda Shetty, chairman, Shree Devi Institutions, Shridar Kamath, director of Gopal Kamath and Company and others were present.