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It was a bright day in Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, when young Kshitij was kicking a football with seniors from Polytechnic College. Kshitij lived near, and his father – Rajeev Singh, was passing by. He was shocked at the sight.
“Kshitij was five-year-old when I saw him playing with senior boys from college. And it was not a leisure activity. He was fighting it out against older players. I was scared that he might get injured. I did not want him to continue playing with them. But, who will listen? My son does what he loves doing since a young age,” were the initial words from Mr. Singh.
Kshitij has always been fearless. He is the youngest member of the Singh family. His elder sister, Nupur, is quite the opposite. She spends most of her time with books, friends, and family.
“Whenever I got an opportunity, I would go out and play. I never liked spending time at home. People regarded me as a fine footballer, and it motivated me,” said he.
Kshitij is right. His playing abilities were noticed by many. One day, Mr. Singh’s friend saw him play. He recommended Kshitij to join formal training.
Playing football in an organized setup
By this time, his father was convinced. Thus began their search for a football academy nearby. Mr. Rajeev discovered Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools (BBFS) in West Canal Road, Dehradun.
Kshitij spent a few months training there and was excelling. It was in 2018 when BBFS started its first residential academy in Delhi. The team organized football trials nationally to scout the best talent. Kshitij got shortlisted with a full scholarship.
“During the first phase of trials in Dehradun, the competition was good, and I managed to get through. The challenge began when I flew to Delhi for the final phase. It was great. Players from around the country came and were very talented. I am glad that I made the final cut out of so many participants,” said Kshitij.
Starting in a new environment was not easy. Leaving family and his friends, life only got tougher for the youngster.
“Initially, he would call us and say he is not happy. It is difficult to adjust to a new environment where discipline is paramount. The entire day is full of activities, and it took him time to settle.
It takes time for anyone to adjust in the initial phase. We motivated Kshitij. Soon his attitude changed, and he started enjoying it,” said his father.
Rising through the ranks
Kshitij follows an exhaustive sporting and academic routine at Vedas International School, Sohna. He wakes up early in the morning, starts his day with football sessions, and goes to school later. After lunch and rest, he joins the evening football session and spends time studying at night.
Alongside their daily routine, Kshitij participates in state and national-level competitions. He played in the Challengers Cup, Subroto Cup, Delhi Cup, Youth I-League, and other competitions.
“His commitment and perseverance will lead him to great things in life. Overall, he is a great kid and has the potential to climb the highest rank”, said BBFS Residential Academy coaches Aditya and Vivek.
Kshitij is currently in class XIth. When speaking of future ambitions, he expressed the desire to don the Indian jersey.
“It fills me with immense pride that my child is playing at such a high level. I played football back in my days but never had such opportunities. It is a matter of joy that Kshitij is doing what he loves. No matter what happens, I will always keep supporting him,” concluded his father.
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