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AFC official: CNMI football heading into right direction
AFC’s head for Corporate Social Responsibility Unit Dr. Annathurai Ranganathan, left, gestures to NMIFA president Jerry Tan after the turnover ceremony of 500 ultra-durable balls to CNMI schools last Saturday at the Oleai Sports Complex. (Roselyn B. Monroyo)
Asian Football Confederation official Dr. Annathurai Ranganathan believes CNMI football is taking the necessary steps to catch up with other countries in its region.
“You’re doing the right things,” Ranganathan, head of AFC’s Corporate Social Responsibility Unit and recently visited the island to lead the distribution of 500 ultra-durable soccer balls to various schools on the island through the Northern Mariana Islands Football Association.
During his stay on Saipan, the AFC official managed to watch CNMI players’ training sessions at the Oleai Sports Complex and talk to coaches.
“I watched the youth training pool play in scrimmage and the players have a lot of talents. With proper training and guidance from good coaches, I can see the CNMI closing the gap against other countries in their region in the age group competitions. You’re heading into the right direction,” Ranganathan said.
“NMIFA is doing a good job, especially at the grassroots level. I can also see the support of the parents, the schools, and other members of the community. When these are put together along with developing new pitches, having equipment, and training new coaches and game officials, CNMI football will grow and reach the level it aspires for,” he added.
Ranganathan, however, reminded the CNMI to be very patient in achieving their goals, as even a football-crazed nation like Japan took many years to become a powerhouse in the region.
“Malaysia used to beat Japan in the 70s and late 80s, but look where Japan is right now after working so hard for many years to improve,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ranganathan visited the island not only to promote football, but also use the sport as a tool to help make CNMI residents good contributors to the community. He conducted a seminar on social responsibility with officials from various local clubs attending last Sunday’s event at the Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan.
