To boost grassroots football in Ladakh, KNVB launches World Coaches Programme

CEC LAHDC Leh, Tashi Gyalson alongside other dignitaries addressing during launch of the KNVB World Coaches Programme in Leh.
CEC LAHDC Leh, Tashi Gyalson alongside other dignitaries addressing during launch of the KNVB World Coaches Programme in Leh.

Excelsior Sports Correspondent

LEH, Dec 10: In a significant move to advance football in Ladakh, the Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB) officially launched its World Coaches Program in Leh, today. The program is designed to train local coaches, who will, in turn, inspire and mentor youth, fostering personal growth, life skills, and social unity through the sport.
The launch event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) LAHDC Leh, Tashi Gyalson, who praised the initiative as a visionary step for sports development in the region. “Football is more than just a game,” said Gyalson, underscoring the importance of sports in shaping the future of youth and building stronger communities.
Tsering Angmo, Secretary of the Ladakh Football Association, expressed her commitment to advancing football in the region, emphasizing that the program would empower youth to become leaders. “This is not just about coaching football; it’s about inspiring our youth to be leaders within their communities,” she remarked.
The event also featured KNVB coaches Roger and Raimond from the Netherlands, who shared the philosophy behind the program and its global success. They emphasized the universal power of football to unite people and foster personal development.
A key moment of the launch was the unveiling of the official jersey for the KNVB World Coaches Program. Deepak Khanolkar from ACOSA Sports, a partner in the initiative, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the launch. “This is the beginning of something special, a shared vision that will create lasting opportunities for the youth of Ladakh,” Khanolkar stated.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Tsering Angmo, recognizing the contributions of everyone involved in bringing the KNVB World Coaches Program to Ladakh.