By Joseph Solomon,

AIFF Media Team

NEW DELHI: In a major boost for Women’s Football in the Nation, whilst taking the ‘beautiful game’ to every nook and corner of the country by fostering interest amongst the populace, the All India Football Federation’s Indian Women’s League Preliminary Round kicked-off in Cuttack, Odisha on October 17, 2016.

Two Teams qualifying from the Preliminary round will progress to the Final Round of the Indian Women’s League, which is slated to commence later this year.

With 10 Teams vying for spots in the Finals, the Preliminary Round has not only offered a chance for emerging Players to showcase their talents, but has also acted as an epiphany for young girls taking baby-steps in Football, giving them a platform to aspire of.

The legendary Bembem Devi, who donned Indian colours for more than 20 years, touted the Indian Women’s League as, “revolutionary in order for Women’s Football to progress in the Nation”

“Women’s Football in India needed a push to progress and the Indian Women’s League has certainly acted as a major boost for every girl who ever dreamt of playing Football in the country”

“The League will expand the base of the Player pyramid structure and with more Women Players being involved in the game, the National Team is bound to benefit as the Coach will have more Players to choose from”

“More Players in the pipeline means competition for spots in the National Team and competition leads to evolution of Players”, Bembem explained.

However, the League does not only stop at that, according to Bembem. “The League will also motivate young girls and give them something to spire of, hence fostering interest amongst them”

“It is revolutionary as it aims to develop Women’s Football in the Nation from top to bottom”, Bembem informed.

“The competition even in the Preliminary Round is very tough. One cannot expect to secure a place in the Finals easily as all Teams are vying vigorously for it”, proclaimed Indian Captain and Eastern Sporting Union FC’s Bala Devi.

“This platform has given young players to showcase their talent on, and it extends horizons of scouting in Women’s Football in India”

“Moreover, it also acts as a vital part of evolution into a better Player for Indian Youth Players as young Players will not only gain experience, but they will learn to play under immense pressure, helping in their overall development”, Bala stated.