Shillong, Feb 4: Shillong will soon host a major youth football scouting event later this month, giving young players from Meghalaya and nearby states an opportunity to showcase their abilities before national-level talent selectors.
The AIFF-FIFA Academy selection trials in Shillong will take place at the MFA Turf at Third Ground, Polo, a venue regularly used for competitive matches and training programmes in the city. Organisers have planned the trials across multiple days so that different age categories can participate smoothly.
As per the official schedule, trials for boys born in 2012 are set for February 18, while boys born in 2013 will attend on February 19. The following day, February 20, has been reserved for girls born in 2011 and 2012. Officials have advised players to report early and carry required identification documents along with proper football kits.
The trials are part of a nationwide effort to identify promising young players who may enter structured training systems under programmes supported by the All India Football Federation and FIFA’s talent development initiatives. Coaches and technical staff will conduct on-field assessments focusing on ball control, movement, teamwork, and fitness.
Participants performing well during the sessions may move forward to further stages of evaluation where advanced coaching opportunities are available. These programmes aim to help players prepare for competitive youth tournaments and long-term football development pathways in the country.
Local football associations expect participation from several districts of Meghalaya as well as neighbouring northeastern states, where football continues to attract strong grassroots interest. Authorities coordinating the event have emphasised orderly participation so that trials can be conducted efficiently over the scheduled days.
Players and guardians have also been informed to complete registrations in advance wherever required, ensuring smoother arrangements at the venue. Officials added that selections will be based purely on performance observed during trial sessions conducted under match-like conditions.
The event is expected to strengthen youth football engagement in the region as aspiring players get a platform to compete and demonstrate their skills in front of national selectors visiting Shillong.
