SAAP plans statewide summer sports camps, focuses on talent hunt

Vijayawada: The Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) has intensified its focus on organising summer sports camps for children to promote fitness and identify young talent during the vacation period. SAAP chairman A Ravi Naidu chaired a review meeting in the city to assess preparations for the camps, sports academies, infrastructure and leagues. Directing officials to ensure efficient planning, Ravi Naidu emphasised that the summer camps should provide a structured and safe sporting environment for children across the state. He called for better coordination with the school games department, municipal bodies and urban development authorities. To ensure smooth implementation, he ordered the formation of three-member district-level committees to closely monitor camp activities. The chairman also highlighted the importance of state-level leagues as platforms for budding sportspersons to showcase their talent. He instructed officials to conduct the leagues transparently in coordination with district administrations, local sports associations and educational institutions. Reviewing sports academies set to reopen soon, Ravi Naidu stressed that the selection of players must be transparent, with a special focus on identifying talent from rural areas. He also directed officials to ensure adequate infrastructure, modern equipment and experienced coaches. The progress of sports development centres under construction was reviewed, with instructions to maintain high-quality standards and expedite completion. Reiterating the vision of making Andhra Pradesh a leading state in sports, the chairman emphasised the need for long-term planning. Additionally, discussions were held on enhancing a sports app to provide easy access to registrations, training opportunities and competition updates for the youth of the state.