Adrian, Godfrey plan boot camp to promote physical activity

Former India players Adrian D’Souza (left) and Godfrey Pereira

Former India hockey goalkeeper Adrian D'Souza and football vice-captain Godfrey Pereira have been busy drawing up plans throughout this COVID-19 lockdown phase on how they can give back to their respective sports. And after much discussion they have planned a week-long UK United Boot Camp
(November 7-14).

Along with brothers, Ronnie and Sunny D'Souza of UK United Sports, Adrian and Godfrey will headline a team of specialist coaches, who will train kids and adults in hockey, football and fitness as part of the boot camp at the Play Turf in Chincholi, Malad. "I've always been wondering how I can give back to hockey which has given me so much. So, when Ronnie approached me with this idea, I grabbed the opportunity. With the Indian hockey team winning a historic bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics, this is the perfect time to promote the game to youngsters," 2004 Athens Olympian, Adrian, 37, told mid-day recently.

Ronnie (left) and Sunny D'Souza of UK United Sports

Meanwhile, Godfrey, who has previously been head coach of the Air India football team, has always been eager to train kids. "With the Indian Super League being so successful, football is gaining popularity. I'm looking forward to teaching kids the basics of the beautiful game," said Godfrey, 51.

"Due to the recent COVID-19 lockdown, physical fitness has taken a backseat. Children have spent most of their time indoors and on virtual games. At this boot camp, along with fitness, we will also incorporate mental health lessons. So, the participants will do football on one day, hockey on another and fitness on the third day. Every participant does everything. It's a unique concept with three activities under one roof," explained Adrian.

The tournament's organisers insist it's a non-profit initiative. "We will be charging a small fee, but besides the expert training provided, all participants will be given sports equipment for free at the camp. They will also get other goodies," said Sunny. "The idea is to encourage people to avoid going out for their short Diwali break and instead spend this time training and playing sport along with their family members of all ages," added Ronnie.

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