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Manu Smriti Football Academy, nestled in Dinajpur city, stands as a beacon aiming to cultivate not only exceptional football players but also to steer the youth away from the clutches of drugs, terrorism, and militancy. Through the nurturing hands of this academy, it endeavours to sculpt the finest football players in the nation.
From the hallowed grounds of this academy in Dinajpur, eminent footballers such as Mujibur Rahman Johnny, Hemant Vincent Biswas, Nobel, and numerous others have emerged, gracing both national and international football arenas as esteemed midfielders representing the Bangladesh football team.
The academy has swiftly garnered acclaim for its contribution to fostering talents and dispatching players to various prestigious clubs across the nation. Imam Abu Zafar Rajab, the visionary behind the Manu Smriti Football Academy, set its foundations with a profound mission: to eradicate child labour from society, promote a drug-free environment, and elevate the standard of football in the country.
Remarkably, this academy has transcended barriers, nurturing talented footballers not just from the mainstream but also from minority communities, symbolising inclusivity and diversity in its pursuit of excellence.
Since its inception in 2014, the Manu Smriti Football Academy commenced with a modest number of students and has since burgeoned to accommodate a current cohort of 80 students. Notably, this esteemed institution has seen 25 of its adept players ascend to represent diverse clubs after honing their skills within its training grounds.
The rigorous football training regimen for these aspirants persists throughout the day, commencing from the early hours. Beyond the realm of sports, the academy extends its support to underprivileged families by providing financial aid and also ensuring the educational expenses of its trainees are covered. Additionally, the students receive complimentary jerseys, boots, and requisite sports equipment, fostering an environment conducive to their holistic development.
The indelible efforts of the Manu Smriti Football Academy are dedicated to elevating the district's status by grooming and dispatching high-calibre players to augment the national team. The academy's impactful contribution has been highlighted by the emergence of revered players such as Mojibur Rahman Johnny, Hemant Vincent Biswas, and Nofel, esteemed midfielders who have proudly represented the Bangladesh football team, attributing their origins to this very institution.
Furthermore, the academy's commendable footprint spans various premier leagues and prestigious clubs, including notable participation in the Dhaka First Division, BCL, and BPL, where their players have notably excelled, accentuating the academy's role in shaping the country's football landscape.
The Manu Smriti Football Academy, established in 2014 with a modest intake, has flourished into a dynamic institution nurturing 80 aspiring students. Remarkably, 25 talented players have emerged from its ranks to grace diverse clubs, showcasing their skills cultivated within the academy's training grounds.
This revered institution maintains an arduous football training schedule for its aspirants, commencing early in the day and persisting rigorously. Beyond sports, the academy extends its support to underprivileged families by providing financial assistance and ensuring the educational expenses of its trainees are fully covered. Additionally, students receive complimentary jerseys, boots, and essential sports equipment, fostering an environment conducive to their comprehensive growth.
The enduring commitment of the Manu Smriti Football Academy is focused on enhancing the district's stature by grooming and sending high-calibre players to fortify the national team. The academy's impactful contribution is evident through the rise of esteemed players like Mojibur Rahman Johnny, Hemant Vincent Biswas, and Nofel, illustrious midfielders who proudly represent the Bangladesh football team, attributing their success to this very institution.
Moreover, the academy's influence extends across various premier leagues and prestigious clubs, marking significant participation in renowned tournaments such as the Dhaka First Division, BCL, and BPL.
Raju Murmu, a practitioner at Manu Smriti, emphasised the scarcity of high-quality football clubs in the vicinity, making the academy a vital hub for training conveniently close to home. He highlighted the absence of discrimination based on financial status, where every player is regarded solely for their abilities. The academy operates without additional monetary demands post-admission, providing support even during external engagements. Murmu expressed gratitude, acknowledging that without the academy, their football training opportunities would have been severely limited.
Imam Abu Zafar Rajab, the visionary behind Manu Smriti Football Academy, highlighted the stark neglect faced by football and footballers in Dinajpur due to the absence of dedicated clubs, despite the prevalence of numerous cricket clubs. The earnest requests of players, including the current national team player, Mojibar Rahman Johnny, prompted the establishment of training facilities.
Initially commencing practice at the Shaheed field in Dinajpur, Gore, the academy later shifted operations to the district stadium. The academy's alumni, including Hemant Vincent Biswas and Mujibur Rahman Johnny, now stand as testament to its success, with 27 footballers actively participating across various levels, from the national team to the second division.
The current initiative by the government, hosting tournaments such as the Bangabandhu, Bangamata, and Sheikh Russell Cups, has created increased opportunities for footballers. This surge in competition has facilitated the emergence of numerous talented players from Trinamul. Emphasising the role of sports in deterring drug use among youths, Rajab urged parents to encourage their children's participation in sports. He assured unwavering support from Manu Smriti Football Academy for all aspiring players.
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