Oakwood Estate Juniors’ parents enjoy GIFA preparations as much as kids

HT Great Indian Football Action (GIFA) has proved its worth as the event that aims at providing a platform for children’s passion for sports. It has also created

HT Great Indian Football Action (GIFA) has proved its worth as the event that aims at providing a platform for children’s passion for sports. It has also created an atmosphere for residents to come together and interact.

Oakwood Estate Juniors from DLF City Phase 2 are high on confidence after winning a practice match. (Abhinav Saha/HT Photo)

Parents of Oakwood Estate Juniors team members were not mere spectators at the Ansal University ground in Sector 55 during a practice match. They were cheerleaders, motivating the team to victory.

“This is the first time I am here for my daughter’s match. I had a fun-filled morning. I enjoyed being a part of this entire event,” Mona Chablani, a parent, said.

Twinkle Mohan of Oakwood Estate, DLF City Phase 2 said, “As parents, we don’t get much time to interact with other parents. Apart from the kids, the HT GIFA has also given us a platform where we can relive our childhood.”

Both parents and children were of the opinion that the city needs more such events.

“My son Raghav is crazy about GIFA as he looks at it as a stepping stone to becoming a professional soccer player,” Sanjay Agarwal, father of a team member said.

The eight-member team is looking forward to the tournament .

“Football fever has captured the children. My son Anish keeps practising. He is happy to wake up early for football. He will miss a birthday party but he has to play football. Thank you GIFA for making children love the sport and give more reasons to play ,” Vishal Singhal, father of a team member, said.

Parents said they cannot wait for the tournament to begin. Waking up early and making sure children get adequate nutrition, parents are on their toes.

“We have all been playing at a local park since childhood and are excited to see our chemistry reflect in the game. GIFA has given us a chance to associate with our friends, parents and the community and HT has provided us the platform. We are proud to see this combination coming along so well,” Raghav Agarwal, a team member, said.

Another parent, Anamika Sirohi, said, “GIFA is such a big hit with my daughter that she insisted on playing in the middle of her exams. Everything else could wait for GIFA,”.

The parents and coaches are all proud that their children are part of this grand affair. Despite the busy schedule, parents make sure they come and cheer
the team.