District-level trials begin for 8-9 year old talent under Uttarakhand scheme

The inaugural round of the Chief Minister’s Udiyaman Player Advancement Scheme focused on children aged eight to nine. A total of 125 participants—both boys and girls—underwent a standardized physical efficiency test at the Gopeshwar stadium.

Selection criteria were based on speed, agility, endurance and coordination, adhering strictly to the guidelines issued by the state sports department. The process was overseen by referees and monitored by senior trainer Suresh Bisht, who confirmed that the assessments were conducted without bias.

Out of the 125 hopefuls, 25 boys and 25 girls will be awarded the scholarship, joining a cohort that will receive regular monthly payments to support their athletic development.