The Future Kabaddi Heroes (FKH) programme, a landmark initiative by Mashal Sports Pvt Ltd and AKFI to scout Kabaddi talent in India received a great response with 290 aspirants participating at the two-day trials held each in Visakhapatnam and Hyderabad. In the first of the three phases, the programme has been designed to test the players on their Kabaddi skills and fitness. The expert panel, led by Jaivir Sharma, Coach with Sports Authority of India and Srinivas Reddy, Assistant coach of Haryana Steelers for VIVO Pro Kabaddi Season V had some tough decisions to make as Kabaddi players across the two states, showcased their skills and determination, in their bid to make it through to the VIVO Pro Kabaddi League Season 6 auction pool.

Mashal Sports, the organisers of VIVO Pro Kabaddi League and AKFI jointly announced the Future Kabaddi Heroes (FKH) programme, a comprehensive three-stage talent scouting and development initiative to foster and nurture future Kabaddi champions. Indore is the next destination for the panel to unearth Kabaddi talent.

Commenting on the talent witnessed on ground Jaivir Sharma, Coach, Sports Authority of India said, “At the Future Kabaddi Heroes programme in Visakhapatnam and Hyderabad, we witnessed some exceptional talent. There were players who had travelled from neighbouring districts as well, to participate in the trials. It feels good to see the determination and passion of these youngsters towards Kabaddi. It has been an overwhelming experience shortlisting talent in these two cities.”

Veeralankaiah, Honorary Secretary, Andhra Pradesh Kabaddi Association said- “I believe that the Future Kabaddi Heroes programme is an ideal platform for aspiring Kabaddi players to showcase their skills. We are extremely supportive of the Kabaddi players in the region and are glad to see them participate in such large numbers. We would like to thank AKFI and Mashal sports for providing this platform to youngsters to help them grow in the field of professional kabaddi.” 

Initiated last year as a pathway to the auction pool in VIVO Pro Kabaddi Season 5, the Future Kabaddi Heroes (FKH) programme scouts promising young talent from thousands of aspirants from all over the country. Last year the scouting programme received an overwhelming response from over 4600 participants. Post a rigorous three-staged selection process, 133 players finally made it to the VIVO Pro Kabaddi 2017 auction pool.

Following a rigorous shortlisting process, a total of over 200-220 players will be selected for Phase II post the 18 city trials. Out of those, exceptional 80-100 players will be chosen for  

Phase III for a month long intensive training camp and subsequently be drafted in the player auction pool of VIVO Pro Kabaddi Season 6 under the ‘New Young Players’ category. The camp follows an approach developed in consultation with renowned coaches and experts from the field of Kabaddi.