Leh, December 10, 2024: The Ladakh Football Association (LFA), in collaboration with the Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB) and Acosa Sports, officially launched the KNVB World Coaches Program in Leh today. Supported by the LAHDC Leh, this groundbreaking initiative is designed to empower local coaches with world-class expertise, while fostering personal development, life skills, and social cohesion through football.The launch event was graced by Chairman/CEC, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Leh, Adv. Tashi Gyalson; Mr. Deepak Khanolkar, representing Acosa Sports; Tsering Angmo, Secretary of the Ladakh Football Association. Notably, coaches Mr. Roger Schouwenaar and Mr. Raimond Massop from KNVB, along with Ms. Kimberly Miranda (India), are imparting their expertise to the local coaches. Dr. Jigmat Dachen, Dean of Student Welfare at the University of Ladakh, is also a key partner and venue host for the program.The proceedings commenced with an address by Adv. Tashi Gyalson, who emphasized the transformative power of sports in fostering community development and youth empowerment. He highlighted the growing sports infrastructure and opportunities in Ladakh and expressed his gratitude for the collaboration that is making world-class coaching accessible to the region. CEC Tashi Gyalson remarked on the growing potential of Ladakhi sports, particularly in football, and emphasized the need for more structured training programs. He noted that, with the right coaching, Ladakh’s athletes can perform at national and international levels. He further expressed his hope that the KNVB World Coaches Program would be the first of many high-level training initiatives in the region.Mr. Schouwenaar, a KNVB coach, then delivered a keynote speech, shedding light on the global impact of the program and its relevance to Ladakh. This course is the first of its kind in such a high-altitude region.A key moment of the event was the Jersey Presentation Ceremony, where Dutch team jerseys were presented to Shri Tashi Gyalson, Ms. Tsering Angmo, and Dr. Jigmat Dachen, symbolizing the strong collaborative spirit of the program.Mr. Deepak Khanolkar shared insights on how the partnership has brought this valuable initiative to Ladakh, while stressing the importance of such collaborations for sports development.Ms. Tsering Angmo concluded the event with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of all stakeholders in bringing this visionary program to Ladakh. She expressed her hopes for the continued success of the program, stating that such initiatives are essential for elevating local football to a higher level.This week-long program, running from December 9–13, 2024, is a significant step in empowering local coaches to inspire and guide Ladakhi youth, creating a lasting ripple effect of positive change in the community.The launch of this program marks an exciting new chapter in Ladakh’s sports journey, and with the continued support of LAHDC and various partners, it is expected to significantly impact the future of football in the region.