KBFC to "support" Kerala government to set up a well-equipped, residential football academy

ISL FRANCHISE KERALA BLASTERS have announced their support for a Kerala state government initiative to build a football academy in the state.

The plans outline the upcoming academy as a "state of the art" facility for young talents to go through intense developmental training. There will also be residential arrangements for the cadets.

KBFC co-owner Sachin Tendulkar said about the project,

"Our aim is to develop 100 top footballers in the next five years and for that we will set up the right infrastructure for that. We are thankful to the Kerala government for their support to help the youngsters here to chase their dreams."

Whether or not this stated goal turns out to be realistic remains to be seen, but this comes right after Kerala Blasters and another ISL franchises have launched their U-15 squads in a friendly match which the Kochi-based team won 5-0. 

With the ISL set to become the official top division league in India from 2017-18, its franchises are taking steps to acquire AFC club licenses. These initiatives can be seen as parts of the same effort.