R ARIVANANTHAM
CHENNAI, APRIL 17
Vels Football Club (VFC) from the house of Vels Group of Institutions on Tuesday announced appointment of Spanish Football legend Gaizka Toqueroas as its International Ambassador. The VFC is the only I-League team from Tamil Nadu will make its strides in the 2024-25 season, said Dr Ishari K Ganesh, Chairman of the group.
Addressing the media, Dr Ishari K Ganesh said, “The Group known for its dedication to the sports sector also announced collaborations of leading sports brand PUMA to elevate the club’s performance to the next level,’’
He further said, “Vels Football Club is thrilled to unveil its international ambassador, Spanish football star Gaizka Toquero, formerly with Athletic Bilbao. Toquero’s arrival brings in a wealth of expertise to the club and is set to shape the International residential football academy. This initiative, known as the Vels FC International Football School of Excellence, offers players across India the chance to train under Spanish coaches, access elite facilities, and participate in various youth leagues and the I-League.
Vels Football Club is a 1st division senior men’s I League club and will be competing in the 2024 – 2025 season. Vels Football Club introduced Vels International Football School of Excellence where kids from the age of 10 years to 20 years can join and undergo a Spanish methodology of football training, get to train football under Spanish coaches while experiencing a world class residence along with school and college education. The residential academy is all set to kick off in June 2024. Vels FC’s brand ambassador and Ex striker of Athletic Bilbao, Spain – Gaizka Toquero will be spearheading the Vels International Football School of Excellence with his team, he added.
Dr Ganesh said, “Gaizka Toquero’s involvement marks a pivotal moment in our pursuit of excellence. His knowledge will nurture our players and enhance our performance. The club is proud to announce its collaboration with leading sportswear brand PUMA, which will sponsor the home and away jerseys for the first team.’’
He also launched the official Jerseys in the presence of dignitaries, including former Football legends and media.
VFC, brainchild of Dr Ishari K Ganesh
Vels Football Club, the brainchild of Dr. Ishari K Ganesh was started to nurture the Football sport in Tamil Nadu. To ensure equal opportunities for underprivileged students across Tamil Nadu, the VFC propose implementing a comprehensive program offering free football coaching for the identified underprivileged children from nook and corner of Tamil Nadu. This initiative aims to not only promote physical fitness and sportsmanship but also to provide a platform for talent development and social inclusion.
The program will be structured to cater to students from economically weaker backgrounds, providing them with access to international quality coaching, facilities, and equipment. To identify potential candidates, outreach efforts will be conducted in collaboration with local schools, community organizations, and government agencies. Priority will be given to students facing financial constraints or other barriers to pursue football game.
