What is Come and Play Scheme?

The Come & Play Scheme was initiated for optimum utilization of Sports Authority of India (SAI) facilities across the country, It primarily focusses on encouraging local sports persons in areas where SAI sports facilities/Centres are operational. While providing youth from local communities and sports enthusiasts with an opportunity to train under SAI coaches, the scheme provides yet another avenue for those not covered under regular residential/non-residential schemes.

The scheme creates yet another pool of talented sportspersons from where meritorious sportspersons can be scouted and inducted into regular residential sports promotional schemes of STC and SAG. The scheme was initiated at various SAI Stadium Complexes in Delhi, in 2011. Subsequently, it launched the scheme at various regional/sub-centres/academic institutions/STC and SAG Centres in October of the same year.

The `Come & Play Scheme’ essentially caters to the 8-17 years age group. Following their selection, age specific competitions are conducted twice a year. The first three position holders in the relevant age groups in these competitions are encouraged to participate in the competitions organized for selection of trainees for admission in STC/SAG schemes under Category/Criteria III of selection. Locally, the DSAs also operate a system of ‘pay and play’.

The specific sports disciplines to be covered are decided by the In-charge Regional Centre/Sub-Centre on the basis of available infrastructure, sports equipment and coaches. The trainees are provided playing arenas/non-consumable equipments like field, track, tables, mats, etc. Minimum and inescapable consumables like balls, shuttle-cocks, etc. are also provided by SAI. Trainees are, however, required to bring sports equipment like racquets and bats.