SAHIWAL – In a strategic move to bolster athletic development, Commissioner Sahiwal Division Dr. Asif Tufail presided over a high-level meeting of the Divisional Sports Committee. The session focused on drafting a roadmap to discover grassroots talent and modernize sports infrastructure across the region.
Key Stakeholders in Attendance
The meeting saw participation from administrative heads and legendary sporting icons, including:
Dr. Saifullah Bhatti, Additional Commissioner Coordination
Shahid Farooq Warraich, Director Local Government
Chaudhry Nisar-ul-Haq, Divisional Sports Officer
Shafiq Ahmed Chishti, Captain of the Pakistan National Kabaddi Team
Khadim Hussain Mohal, District Education Officer
A Unified Strategy for Excellence
Addressing the committee, Commissioner Dr. Asif Tufail emphasized that the promotion of sports requires a joint strategy involving multiple departments. He noted that isolated efforts are no longer sufficient to meet modern competitive standards.
“Sahiwal Division is a goldmine of raw athletic talent,” the Commissioner stated. “By implementing integrated measures, we will provide our youth with the opportunities they deserve to refine their skills and bring pride to the nation on international platforms.”
To ensure tangible results, Dr. Tufail directed officials to prepare a comprehensive master plan featuring:
Talent Hunt Programs: Systematic scouting in rural and urban areas.
Tournament Calendars: Regular inter-district and divisional competitions.
Infrastructure Upgrades: Improving the quality of existing grounds and gymnasiums.
Inter-Departmental Collaboration
The committee agreed that the Sports Department, Education Department, and the Sahiwal Board must work in synergy. This collaboration aims to integrate sports more deeply into the academic curriculum and ensure that student-athletes receive the necessary support.
The meeting reviewed specific proposals for the promotion of various disciplines, including:
National Sports: Hockey, Kabaddi, and Cricket.
Individual & Combat Sports: Athletics, Taekwondo, and Badminton.
Team Sports: Football and Volleyball.
Conclusion and Commitment
The session concluded with a firm resolve to make the Sahiwal Division a hub of sporting activity. The administration pledged to utilize all available resources to engage the youth in positive, healthy activities, steering them away from social evils and toward a path of discipline and physical excellence.