FICCI announces the dates of the 3rd edition of its annual international convention on the business of football, FICCI GOAL 2015. The 2 day event will take place at the FICCI Federation House on 12-13 February, 2015. The intention of this third edition of FICCI GOAL 2015 is to bring together the most relevant stakeholders behind the growing football industry of India and to create awareness on business opportunities that are unfolding around it.
FICCI GOAL 2015, supported by the All India Football Federation and Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, is the biggest convention on the business of football hosted in India and brings together hundreds of key influencers within the global and Indian football industries for 2 days of strategic dialogue around the beautiful game. The conference will include targeted sessions on relevant Indian football topics, B2B meetings, networking lunch & dinner and exhibitions besides the annual India Sports & Football Awards.
Libero Sports are the knowledge partners to this event and have been instrumental in conceptualizing and crafting the initiative along with FICCI and AIFF.
Date: 02/12/2015The 2014/15 Hero I-League launched in January with a number of Libero athletes all aiming to make vital contributions to their respective teams’ fortunes for the upcoming season.
Indian National Team striker Robin Singh, Keegan Pereira, Khagembam Thoi Singh, Malemnganba Meitei, Shankar Sampingiraj, Gurtej Singh and Karan Sawhney will do their best to retain the I-League title after winning it in their maiden season with defending champions Bengaluru FC.
They will face stiff competition from Goan giants Dempo SC, who have acquired the services of English Central Defender, Calum Angus. Angus will look to be the lynchpin in the Dempo SC defence, as they look to usurp Bengaluru FC’s title charge.
Japanese medio and Mohun Bagan AC’s creative force, Katsumi Yusa will give his all in having a successful season with his team, whilst Trinidad & Tobago World Cup Players Cornell Glen and Densill Theobald will represent city rivals Shillong Lajong FC & Royal Wahingdoh FC respectively in the upcoming season.
Libero Sports would like to wish its 42 clients the best for the upcoming 2014/15 Hero I-League.
Date: 02/12/2015Libero Sports concluded a busy winter transfer period with former England International striker Jay Bothroyd completing a move to Jubilo Iwata in Japan and current Guatemalan international Elias Vasquez moving to Real Salt Lake in Major League Soccer (MLS). Early in the winter Libero brokered four moves in Thailand including: Lebanese international Soony Saad to BEC Tero Sasana; Georgie Welcome and Jun Marques Davidson to Royal Navy FC and Shimoji Sho to Police United. In addition, Lawrence Olum moved from Sporting Kansas City in MLS to Kedah FA in Malaysia and Scott Cooper was named Head Coach of Mitra Kukar FC in Indonesia.
Date: 02/12/2015LIBERO SPORTS ORGANISES ONE GOAL NUTRITION SESSION AT BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE LIVE
Libero Sports along with the Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein-driven Asian Football Development Project, organized a ONE GOAL workshop to educate community coaches and youth footballers about the role nutrition plays in the lives of a professional athlete. The interactive discussion on nutrition led by Liverpool FC International Football Academy coach, Michael Rice, and AIFF coach, Kalpana Dass, saw participation from some of India’s leading football organisations.
ONE GOAL is the Asian Football Confederation’s flagship social responsibility initiative. The campaign seeks to transform child nutrition in the Asian region by engaging players, fans and football lovers to become ambassadors for good nutritional practices and engage and encourage governments to invest more in helping children to access nutritious foods so they can reach their full potential. ONE GOAL also invests in Grassroots Football Development and healthy lifestyle of young people.
The ONE GOAL session was a part of Barclays Premier League Live in Mumbai, a two day free international fan park which brings the excitement of the Barclays Premier League to its global fanbase. As committed supporters of ONE GOAL, the Premier League offered this high profile platform to ONE GOAL to educate the public on the importance of nutrition and raise awareness about its mission to fight malnutrition and obesity in Asia.
LIVERPOOL INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ACADEMY - DSK SHIVAJIANS & SESA FOOTBALL ACADEMY HAVE A STRONG START TO 2014/15 I-LEAGUE U-19 SEASON
DSK Shivajians FC U-19 team comprising of players from India’s first Premier League club branded residential football academy, the Liverpool International Football Academy – DSK Shivajians (LIFA-DSK), have made a promising start to their first ever campaign in the prestigious I-League U-19 2014-15 edition. Playing in the Maharashtra Zone against teams like Kenkre FC, Pune FC, PIFA and Mumbai FC, DSK Shivajians have managed to beat every team once in their group, making it 4 wins out of 4 and helping them top the group at the half-way stage. The top 2 leading goal-scorers of the league are also from DSK Shivajians U-19 team – Lallianzuala and Mawihmingthang, at 7 and 5 goals respectively.
In the Goa Zone, another Libero Sports client, Sesa Football Academy is at the 2nd spot on the points table after playing a game each against U-19 teams from AIFF Elite Academy, Salgaocar FC, Dempo SC and Sporting Clube de Goa. The team has managed to win one, draw two and lose one so far. Sesa FA were the winners of the Goa Zone last year and ended up finishing 3rd overall in the final round of I-League U-19 2014 edition.
Both teams are playing their home matches on their home academy grounds and only the table toppers from each zone will qualify for the final round.
LIBERO SPORTS CLIENTS DENSILL THEOBALD & KIM SONG-YONG SIGN FOR I-LEAGUE SIDE ROYAL WAHINGDOH FC
Libero Sports have completed the transfers of its clients Densill Theobald and Kim Song-Yong to Royal Wahingdoh FC for the 2014-15 season.
Densill Theobald will be the Marquee Player for Royal Wahingdoh FC. Theobald played in all 3 group games for Trinidad & Tobago at the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
North Korean striker Kim Song-Yong joins Royal Wahingdoh FC from Rangdajied UFC where he had a successful 2013-14 season helping the team to safety scoring 6 goals and making 5 assists in the season.
Both players will be looking to play important roles for Royal Wahingdoh FC in the 2014-15 season.
LIBERO SPORTS OFF TO A BUSY START IN THE SOUTH EAST ASIAN TRANSFER MARKET
Libero Sports has been off to a positive start in the pre-season Asian transfer window.
Transactions completed in the month of December include: Soony Saad to BEC Tero Sasana (Thailand), Georgie Welcome to Royal Navy FC (Thailand), Shimoji Sho to Police United (Thailand), Scott Cooper (coach) to Mitra Kukar FC (Indonesia), Jun Marques Davidson to Royal Navy FC (Thailand), and Genki Nagasato (extension) at Ratchaburi FC (Thailand)
JAIME PENEDO SHINES AS LA GALAXY WIN MLS CUP 2014
LA Galaxy Goalkeeper and Libero Sports client, Jamie Penedo, helped the Galaxy win its 5th MLS Cup with a 2-1 overtime win over the New England Revolution. Penedo had a stellar run in the playoffs allowing only 3 goals in 5 games.
“It’s great to see that ONE GOAL has taken the initiative to educate the Indian football community on this important topic and that the Premier League has provided them with its full support. For India to grow into a strong football nation, it is critical for our citizens to have an understanding of the role that nutrition plays in their development and well-being. AIFF is honoured to be a part of this campaign and wishes it continued success on its mission.”
KUSHAL DAS | General Secretary, All India Football Federation
Date: 05/28/2015LIBERO SPORTS SECURES ASIAN FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT AS NEW CLIENT
The Asian Football Development Project (AFDP) has appointed Libero Sports to support its programming and partnerships within India. Within this role, Libero Sports will primarily focus on working with key stakeholders to create stronger CSR and grassroots platforms for the Indian football industry. The first major activity will take place at the Barclays Premier League Live event scheduled for next month in Mumbai.
The AFDP is a Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein driven not-for-profit Youth Commission founded in February 2012 which provides needs based assistance to organizations that leverage football as a tool for social development. The primary aspirations of AFDP are threefold: to contribute and to promote social development through football, to establish regular grassroots and youth activities for boys and girls aged 6 and above in all territories in Asia and to open new markets for business partners.
LIBERO SPORTS PLAYER & ENGLISH CENTRE-BACK CALUM ANGUS SIGNS FOR DEMPO SC
Dempo SC have secured the services of Libero Sports client Calum Angus for the 2014/15 season. Angus is set to be the lynchpin of the Dempo SC rearguard this season after having won 5 Man of the Match awards in the I-League last year with Pune FC. A product of the Portsmouth Academy, Angus is known for his tough tackling and ability to play out from the back with ease. Angus is a very efficient leader and has played for Portsmouth FC (England) and GAIS (Sweden), and will be looking to have a successful stint with the Goan giants.
JAIME PENEDO HELPS LA GALAXY REACH MLS CUP
In his first full season with the LA Galaxy, Libero Sports client Jaime Penedo has helped his club reach the MLS Cup final set to take place December 7th at The Home Depot Center in Carson, CA. Penedo has had a stellar playoff run allowing only two goals during the campaign both to Seattle Sounders in the second leg of the Western Conference Finals. The LA Galaxy will be competing for their 5th MLS Cup next weekend.
LIBERO SPORTS OFF TO A STRONG START IN THE SOUTH ASIAN TRANSFER WINDOW
Libero Sports has gotten off to a strong start in the South East Asian transfer window by completing two key transfers. Kayne Vincent was signed by Asian Champions League side, Buriram United, after a successful season with Songkhla United where he netted 11 league goals. Furthermore, Libero Sports facilitated the transfer of Sporting Kansas City player, Lawrence Olum, to Kedah FA in the Malaysian Premier League. Lawrence has vast experience in the US, having also won the MLS Cup, and will surely serve as a boost in the back-line for the storied Malaysian club.
"On behalf of the Asian Football Development Project, I’m looking forward to working with Libero Sports to support our objective of increasing the level of CSR and grassroots programming within India. Through their deep understanding of the Indian football landscape and extensive network, I’m confident that together we will create a sustainable and meaningful impact within the country."
Urs Zanitti | CEO, Asian Football Development Project
Date: 05/28/2015NORTHEAST UNITED FC'S KONDWANI MTONGA WINS 'HERO OF THE MATCH' IN THE INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE
Libero Sports client and NorthEast United FC’s Zambian midfielder, Kondwani Mtonga, put in a stellar performance as his side won 2-0 away to Mumbai City FC in the Indian Super League. Mtonga scored the opening goal and controlled the game from start to finish, and was rightly adjudged to be the Man of the Match, as NorthEast United FC picked up their 2nd win of the inaugural Indian Super League season.
Libero Sports client and NorthEast United FC goalkeeper TP Rehenesh won the ‘Emerging Player of the Match’ as NorthEast United drew 0-0 against Delhi Dynamos. In the same match NorthEast United FC striker James Keene picked up the ‘Fittest Player of the Match’ Award.
JAIME PENEDO & LOS ANGELES GALAXY FINISH RUNNERS-UP IN MLS REGULAR SEASON
Behind consistent play from Jaime Penedo, the L.A. Galaxy finished runner up in the MLS regular season. In his first full season with the Galaxy, Penedo brought stability to the goalkeeping position, which had been an Achilles heel for the attacking minded Galaxy. Penedo and the Galaxy move into the MLS Playoffs as co-favorites with the Seattle Sounders. Penedo’s play has most analysts ranking him as one of the top three goalkeepers in MLS.
LIFA-DSK SHIVAJIANS HOSTS DSK CUP ALL-INDIA INVITATIONAL FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT
India’s first Premier League club branded fully residential football academy, the Liverpool International Football Academy – DSK Shivajians, hosted the DSK Cup All-India Invitational Football Tournament on their state-of-the-art 4G artificial pitch at the DSK Dream City Campus in Pune. The tournament took place from 10th to 19th October 2014 and included 12 teams from all over India. Throughout the competition, the arena exuded a carnival like atmosphere with supporters cheering and hooting for their favorite teams. The final saw the hosts DSK Shivajians defeat Ashwamedh Nagpur FC 2-0 in a nail biting match.
“I want to thank Libero Sports for giving me the opportunity to play in the Indian Super League. The ISL is a fantastic opportunity for me to showcase my skills and talent, and I feel lucky to have this opportunity. I'm going to do my best for North East United FC and we will work hard to win the league.”
Kondwani Mtonga | Midfielder, NorthEast United Football Club
Date: 05/28/2015LIBERO SPORTS NAMED FINALIST FOR THE FOOTBALL BUSINESS AWARDS 2014
India’s leading football consultancy, Libero Sports India, has been selected as a finalist for the Football Business Awards 2014 in the category “Best Business Serving Football.” This is the first time that an Indian organisation has been shortlisted to receive this prestigious award; a clear sign of the excitement surrounding the rapidly growing Indian football industry. This year's finalists include English Premier League giants Manchester United FC, Manchester City FC, and Liverpool FC along with other high profile organizations involved in football such as American Express, Bloomberg Sports, Octagon, and Sky Deutschland AG.
Since launching its operations in 2010, Libero Sports India has quickly positioned itself as the preferred advisory firm for investors, clubs, MNCs, Academies and players looking to achieve success within the Indian football industry. The winners of each category will be announced at the Football Business Awards taking place at Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge on November 6, 2014.
FICCI-LIBERO SPORTS LED INDIAN DELEGATION & INDIA SESSION AT SOCCEREX GLOBAL CONVENTION, A BIG SUCCESS
FICCI and Libero Sports successfully led a 25 member Indian delegation to the Soccerex Global Convention in Manchester, UK. It carried forward the strategic relationships within the Indian football community, created awareness of the global “best practices” and reinforced the arrival of Indian football to the world. The presence of representatives from all sectors of Indian football provided potential investors with a broad and credible understanding of the current state of the industry and its future potential.
The Indian delegation also hosted a successful panel discussion entitled “Football’s Giant Awakens,” on day one of the convention. Members of the panel included, Kushal Das (General Secretary, All India Football Federation), Sunando Dhar (CEO, I-League, All India Football Federation), Rajpal Singh (Director Sports, FICCI), Shirish Kulkarni (President, Liverpool International Football Academy - DSK), Michael Chopra (Professional Player, Kerala Blasters FC), and Sukhvinder Singh (Managing Director, Libero Sports India). This session was the best attended session at Soccerex with a filled to capacity room of around 500 people turning up to witness the panel discussion. On this occasion, FICCI & Libero Sports also released their 6th knowledge report, “Building Football’s Sleeping Giant.”
LIBERO SPORTS BRINGS EX-PORTSMOUTH & IF ELFSBORG STRIKER JAMES KEENE TO INDIA
Former Portsmouth FC & IF Elfsborg's English striker James Keene will lead the attack for Guwahati based Indian Super League side NorthEast United FC, after Libero Sports successfully completed the transfer of Keene from Israel’s Bnei Yehuda FC.
Keene will join Cornell Glen (Trinidad & Tobago), Isaac Chansa (Zambia), Kondwani Mtonga (Zambia), Milan Singh (India) and TP Rehenesh (India) in NorthEast United FC’s quest to win the Indian Super League title.
Indian National Team & Kingfisher East Bengal Central Defender Raju Gaikwad will represent Mumbai City FC, while Dempo SC custodian Gurpreet Singh will play for FC Goa in the inaugural season of IMG-Reliance’s high profile competition which begins October 12.
MLS CLUB PHILADELPHIA UNION EXTENDS CONTRACT WITH RAY GADDIS
Libero Sports client Ray Gaddis has extended his stay with the Philadelphia Union in MLS. Gaddis signed a multi-year, guaranteed contract with MLS through the 2016 season. Gaddis currently leads MLS in minutes played and has started 27 consecutive matches for the Philadelphia Union. Many U.S. based pundits believe Gaddis is due for a call up into the U.S. National Team over the course of the next four months.
"When you talk about Ray, I get a smile on my face because this is one of the things I'm most happy about in my short tenure as the coach, to get him rewarded for all his hard work," interim manager Jim Curtin said in a news release.
“We are delighted to announce that Libero Sports India has been announced as a finalist in the Football Business Awards 2014, a first for any India based organisation. I applaud the team at Libero Sports for their tremendous contribution in helping to shape and professionalise the Indian football industry through their hard work, creativity and passion for the beautiful game.”
Simon Burton | Director, Football Business Awards
Date: 05/28/2015LIBERO SPORTS CLIENTS SET TO COMPETE IN THE INAUGURAL INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE SEASON
Libero Sports clients Cornell Glen, Isaac Chansa, Kondwani Mtonga, Milan Singh and Raju Gaikwad have all signed on to play in the inaugural season of the Indian Super League.
Kingfisher East Bengal and Indian National Team defender Raju Gaikwad will ply his trade for Mumbai City FC while Glen, Chansa, Mtonga and Singh will be aiming to win the high profile football competition with Guwahati based franchise North East United Football Club.
LIBERO SPORTS TO LEAD INDIA SESSION AT SOCCEREX GLOBAL FORUM
Plans for the eagerly anticipated Indian Super League and the 2017 U17 FIFA World Cup will be officially presented to the global football industry at the Soccerex Global Convention, held in Manchester on 6-10 September, after the confirmation that a senior Indian delegation will be attending.The session will begin with Kushal Das, General Secretary of the All India Football Federation, delivering a standalone keynote speech, outlining the explosion of the game in India.
The panel, moderated by Libero Sports Managing Director Sukhvinder Singh, will see I-League CEO Sunando Dhar, STAR Sports India President Nitin Kukreja, the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry Director Rajpal Singh and Liverpool FC International Football Academy – DSK Shivajians President Shirish Kulkarni presenting the latest developments behind the two projects and the multiple business opportunities associated within Indian football, culminating in the release of the combined FICCI-AIFF-Libero Sports knowledge report.
The Convention kicks off with a Football Festival on 6-7 September, with the Conference starting on Monday 8 September. A packed international exhibition and a programme of networking and social events complete the schedule for what is widely acknowledged as the world’s leading football business event.
There are still some spots available for those interested in joining the Indian delegation.
Please contact Sweekar Kapoor at sweekar.kapoor@liberosports.com for more information.
LIBERO SPORTS SUCCESSFULLY CONDUCTS ONE GOAL STRATEGY WORKSHOP
Libero Sports organized and led a workshop on nutrition and football at the St. John’s Research Institute in Bangalore 19-20 August. The two day event, which focused on connecting nutrition and football as part of the efforts to build the ONE GOAL India strategic plan, was well represented by the football and development community and included organizations such as Ashoka Group, Asian Football Development Project, Akshaya Patra Foundation, Magic Bus, Slum Soccer, Royal DSM, and World Vision India.
The workshop concluded with participants attending an India vs. Pakistan football friendly that took place on 20th September 2014 at the Bangalore Football Stadium.
ONE GOAL is AFC’s flagship social responsibility initiative which aspires to be a simple, powerful campaign to mobilize and inspire the community of over 1.4 billion Asian football fans to take action for better child nutrition.
LIBERO SPORTS CLIENT AND JEF UNITED'S RYOSUKE YAMANAKA TO REPRESENT JAPAN IN UPCOMING ASIAN GAMES
Libero Sports is pleased to announce that Ryosuke Yamanaka has been called up to feature for Japan in the Asian Games. Yamanaka has regularly featured for the Japan U19 and U22 National Teams and has captained the sides on several occasions.
“I am very excited to be a part of the Indian Super League. I will try and do my best for North East United Football Club and I would like to thank Libero Sports for providing me with this opportunity.”
Isaac Chansa | 2012 African Cup of Nations Winner & Zambian National Team Player
Date: 05/28/2015LIBERO SPORTS, FICCI & ALL INDIA FOOTBALL FEDERATION TEAM UP TO ORGANIZE INDIAN FOOTBALL INDUSTRY DELEGATION TO SOCCEREX GLOBAL CONVENTION 6–10 SEPTEMBER
For the third straight year, Libero Sports along with partners Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) are organizing a trip to the Soccerex Global Convention in Manchester, UK. The individuals who join the delegation include key stakeholders within the Indian football fraternity and also a contingent of individuals who are looking to build relations within this rapidly growing industry. Some of the people already confirmed as a part of the delegation include AIFF General Secretary Mr. Kushal Das, I-League CEO Mr. Sunando Dhar, Under Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports Mr. Patro & Project Officer – Football at Sports Authority of India Mr. Makholia.
The Soccerex Global Convention is the world’s largest football business event, offering a platform for football leaders to come together to debate, network and conduct business. It is attended by leading administrators, football legends and other key influencers from around the globe. Lasting five days including a two day Football Festival, the 2014 edition will take place in Manchester, UK from 6-10 September at Manchester Central Convention Complex. FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter has been confirmed to kick off this year’s convention.
There are limited spots available for those interested in joining this delegation. Please contact Sweekar Kapoor at sweekar.kapoor@liberosports.com for more information.
LIVERPOOL FC BECOMES OFFICIAL 'INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL CLUB PARTNER' FOR SOCCEREX DELEGATION
Liverpool FC has been confirmed as ‘International Football Club Partner’ for the Indian delegation that will be attending the Soccerex Global Forum in Manchester this September. As part of the partnership, Liverpool FC will be extending a warm welcome to the Indian delegation by taking the members on private tours of the club’s training ground, the historic Anfield football ground and the Liverpool FC museum.
The tour will conclude with presentations from senior Liverpool FC representatives on various components of the organization including Liverpool FC’s long term strategy to build its presence within the Indian subcontinent. It will be followed by a discussion with current Liverpool FC partner in India and President of the Liverpool International Football Academy – DSK Shiivajians in Pune, Mr. Shirish Kulkarni.
MATT BESLER COMMITS FUTURE TO SPORTING KANSAS CITY
After weeks of speculation linking him to European clubs, Matt Besler committed his future to Sporting Kansas City by signing a long term Designated Player deal.
A Kansas City native, Besler became the first player from the state of Kansas to play in a FIFA World Cup when he started all four matches for the United States in Brazil this summer. Besler has twice collected MLS Best XI (2012, 2013) honors and is a three-time MLS All-Star (2011, 2013, 2014). He was awarded MLS Defender of the Year in 2012 before being named a finalist again in 2013. Besler has collected Sporting Kansas City's Defensive Player of the Year each of the past three seasons.
Besler was named captain of the reigning MLS Cup champions prior to the 2014 season and was recognized as the Kansas City Sports Commission Sportsman of the Year in April. He has made 147 MLS appearances since being drafted by Kansas City in the first round of the 2009 MLS SuperDraft.
FOUR LIBERO SPORTS CLIENTS ON TOUR IN CZECH REPUBLIC AS PART OF THE INDIAN NATIONAL TEAM TRAINING CAMP
Libero Sports clients Milan Singh (Shillong Lajong FC), Salam Ranjan Singh (Pune FC), Robin Singh & Shankar Sampingiraj (both Bengaluru FC) have been selected for an exposure tour to Czech Republic in preparation for the forthcoming Incheon Asian Games with the Indian Mens National Team.
“For the third year in a row, we are excited to be hosting the FICCI Indian delegation at the Soccerex Global Convention in Manchester, UK on 6-10th September. The Indian football industry is about to enter a pivotal stage in its development with the strengthening of the I-League, the launch of the Indian Super League and the upcoming 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup which will be the first official FIFA tournament hosted on Indian soil. Soccerex is the perfect platform for key Indian football industry stakeholders to prepare for these opportunistic times ahead by building their global network, learning industry best practices and sharing their knowledge with the rest of the global football community. I recommend that those interested in growing the game in India and abroad join this delegation and come out to Manchester to be a part of the world’s biggest football business event.”
Duncan Revie | CEO,Soccerex
Date: 05/28/2015MATT BESLER AND THE U.S. NATIONAL TEAM ADVANCE IN GROUP OF DEATH
Matt Besler started all three group matches for the United States as they finished ahead of Portugal and Ghana to earn a spot in the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup in Brazil. Besler earned rave reviews, including a match rating of nine, in the draw against Portugal as he stymied Ronaldo and the Portuguese attack. The undisputed leader of the U.S. NT back line and the captain at Sporting Kansas City in MLS, Besler's play has drawn interest from clubs in the U.K., Germany and the rest of Europe. Besler will once again lead the Yanks on Tuesday in the knockout match against Belgium.
JAMIE CARRAGHER OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES LIVERPOOL FC BRANDED FOOTBALL ACADEMY IN PUNE
On June 3rd, Libero Sports client DSK Group officially launched its dream football project, the LFC International Football Academy – DSK Shivajians (LIFA-DSK) in front of hordes of media, dignitaries, footballers and passionate Liverpool FC supporters. As a sign of Liverpool FC’s strong commitment to this project, club legend Jamie Carragher made his first trip to India to officially inaugurate the Academy. The inauguration comes close on the heels of a recently concluded three month long nationwide scouting camp held in six cities which garnered a phenomenal response and involvement from football enthusiasts across the country.
This initiative witnessed over 2500 participants who underwent rigorous selection processes under the supervision of India based Liverpool FC coaches Ray Curtis and Michael Rice. The 64 best players have been selected to form the first intake of the Academy under 17 and under 19 age groups. The unique partnership between Premier League club Liverpool FC and DSK Shivajians FC, brings a first-of-its kind international club residential football academy to India, providing a major boost to this football focused infrastructure development.
LIBERO SPORTS ORGANIZES AFC ENDORSED ONE GOAL ROUNDTABLE AT AIFF FOOTBALL HOUSE
Libero Sports organized a two-day ONE GOAL workshop focusing on nutrition and football in India at the All India Football Federation Football House. ONE GOAL is AFC's flagship social responsibility initiative which aspires to be a simple, powerful campaign which will mobilise and inspire the community of over 1.4 billion Asian Football fans to take action for better Child nutrition.
Besides AIFF, the other organisations who took part included the likes of Ashoka Group, Asian Football Development Project, Back 2 Fitness, British Council, DSM, FICCI, The Football Link, GAIN, GH Advocates, Magic Bus, and World Vision India.
Special guests who participated in the workshop included AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das, Airtel I-League CEO Sunando Dhar and Indian National Team players Robin Singh and Aditi Chauhan.
LIBERO SPORTS FACILITATES FRIENDLIES FOR INDONESIAN NATIONAL TEAM
Libero Sports successfully facilitated two international friendly matches for the Indonesian National Team. The first match, versus Pakistan, took place on 21 June in Surabaya and the second match, versus Nepal, took place on 25 June in the city of Malang.
MINCHOL SON CALLED UP TO NORTH KOREA NATIONAL TEAM'S PREPARATORY CAMP FOR AFC ASIAN GAMES
Libero Sports client and Shillong Lajong Football Club’s North Korean central defender, Minchol Son, has been invited to be part of the North Korean National Team Training Camp set to take place prior to the 2014 Asian Games.
“Liverpool's had outstanding support everywhere we go, even in pre-season and I've found that India is no different. They've been very passionate about everything. We're really lucky and privileged. I've played for the club for so long, and we obviously know of the support we have back in England but it speaks volumes to how big Liverpool is as a club internationally, which is why these two parties have come together. It's been a great experience for me as I've never been to India before this week. I've loved what I've seen of the country and the people I've met so I'm sure I'll try to come back soon."
Jamie Carragher | Liverpool FC Legend
Date: 05/28/2015ONE GOAL APPOINTS LIBERO SPORTS AS START UP PROJECT MANAGER FOR INDIA
Libero Sports is pleased to add ONE GOAL to its client portfolio. ONE GOAL is the AFC's flagship social responsibility initiative which aspires to be a simple, powerful campaign that will mobilize and inspire the community of over 1.4 billion Asian football fans to take action for better child nutrition. ONE GOAL will raise awareness, scale up programmes and open up CSR funding streams through Asian football events, celebrity endorsement, viral messaging, digital giving and social media.
Libero Sports is serving as the start up project managers for the ONE GOAL India campaign. To kick off Libero Sports’ association with this movement, ONE GOAL invited Libero Director, Neel Shah, to speak on a panel about nutrition in India at the inaugural AFC Sports for Development conference which took place 23 – 24 May in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Libero will continue its efforts around ONE GOAL by organizing a roundtable discussion on nutrition and football in India, an activity being planned in conjunction with the Asian Football Confederation, All India Football Federation and the ONE GOAL global office.
LIBERO SPORTS TO BRING INDIAN DELEGATION TO SOCCEREX GLOBAL FORUM
In association with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), Libero Sports will be bringing a delegation of football industry stakeholders to the Soccerex Global Forum set to take place in Manchester, UK 6 – 10 September, 2014.
With the expected record Indian television viewership for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, upcoming launch of the Indian Super League and announcement of India hosting the 2017 U-17 FIFA World Cup, the subcontinent is quickly becoming a major place of interest for the domestic global football and business communities. This was made apparent at the Soccerex Asian Forum which was held 13-14 May in Amman, Jordan where Libero Managing Director, Sukhvinder Singh, fielded an on-slot of questions about updates and opportunities for investors to enter the Indian football industry.
FICCI and Libero Sports will be capping the Indian delegation to Soccerex at 50 delegates.
LIBERO SPORTS PLAYERS CALLED UP FOR THE 2014 ASIAN GAMES PREPARATORY CAMP
The All India Football Federation has called up 6 Libero Sports clients as a part of 54 players for the 2014 Asian Games preparatory camp to be held in Bangalore from the 1st of July 2014.
Libero Sports clients Salam Ranjan Singh (Pune FC), Shankar Sampingiraj (Bengaluru FC), Milan Singh (Shillong Lajong FC), Lalrempuia Fanai (Pune FC), Siam Hanghal (Bengaluru FC) and Robin Singh (Bengaluru FC) will look to impress during the camp and cement their place in the Indian squad which will travel to the Incheon Asian Games 2014,South Korea from September 9, 2014 to October 4, 2014.
LIBERO SPORTS INTERNATIONAL ROUNDUP
Sporting KC and US National Team defender Matt Besler played the full 90 minutes in the Americans 2 – 0 win over Azerbaijan in a FIFA World Cup warm up match. Besler and his teammates kick off their FIFA World Cup on June 16th against Ghana in Natal.
Libero athletes placed in Thailand over pre-season all had a great month with seven of them currently with teams who are in the top half of the Thai Premier League. Shimoji Sho and Georgie welcome from BEC Tero combined well together to find the net nine times between the pair - BEC Tero are now second place in the Thai Premier League. Robert Cullen also found his footing as he scored four goals in the last four weeks to help Suphanburi FC finish the month in fourth place. Wellington Priori, Yuji Funayama, and Masahito Noto have all shown well for Army United as the team Moved up to third place.
Libero Sports client and Afghanistan National team captain, Zohib Islam Amiri, led his country to a fourth place finish in the AFC Challenge Cup recently held in the Maldives.
“We are pleased to appoint Libero Sports as the start up project managers and partnership broker for the ONE GOAL India campaign. This group is full of energy, has a deep expertise in football and a passion for child nutrition, all ingredients for success for ONE GOAL India and beyond. I’m looking forward working closely together with Libero Sports to make ONE GOAL a historic global movement for children to thrive.”
Dr. Stefan Germann | Executive Director, ONE GOAL
Date: 05/28/2015LIBERO SPORTS PLAYERS BASK IN GLORY AS BENGALURU FC WIN THE 2013/14 AIRTEL I-LEAGUE IN ITS FIRST SEASON
Libero Sports clients Robin Singh, Johnny Menyongar, Siam Hanghal, Thoi Singh, Keegan Pereira, Malemnganba Meitei, Karan Sawhney, Lalrozama Fanai, Gurtej Singh and Manpreet Singh made vital contributions throughout the season for Bengaluru FC and helped the club to win their maiden I-League title in its very first attempt. This was the second I-League title win of their careers for Thoi, Malemnganba, Gurtej & Manpreet whilst the others got their first taste of I-League silverware after this triumph.
CORNELL GLEN FINISHES SEASON AS SECOND TOP GOAL-SCORER OF AIRTEL I-LEAGUE 2013/14
Libero Sports client and Shillong Lajong FC’s Trinidad & Tobago striker Cornell Glen has finished the season as the second top goal scorer in the 2013/14 Airtel I-League.
Glen has scored 14 goals in 18 I-League matches for Shillong Lajong FC, with three of them coming in a stunning hat-trick in his team’s 5-4 away win over Mohammedan Sporting SC. Glen also picked up his 6th Man of the Match Award of the season.
LIFA-DSK TRIALS IN GOA, DELHI AND MUMBAI
After a successful 2-leg stint of scouting trials that took place in north-eastern cities of India, Aizawl and Shillong, the Liverpool International Football Academy – DSK Shivajians (LIFA-DSK) team comprising of LFC coaches Ray Curtis and Michael Rice, and the physiotherapist from DSK Shivajians FC traveled around the rest of the country in search for quality talent in the U17 and U19 age category.
In Goa, the trials went on for 3 days at the Duler Stadium and saw around 180 players turning up to showcase their skills. 8 lucky players were selected for the final round of trials that shall take place in Pune. The LIFA-DSK team then moved north to the capital city of Delhi where a 2-day leg at the Ambedkar Stadium saw participation from more than 300 players across both age groups. The coaches were impressed with what they saw and shortlisted 25 players for the final round. The Delhi leg was soon after followed by a 2-day leg in Mumbai where almost 450 players attended the trials at the Cooperage Stadium and 16 players were selected for the final round of trial.
Over the past month and a half, LIFA-DSK conducted trials in 5 cities across India which saw an overwhelming number of approximately 2000 players undergoing trials under the watchful eyes of LFC coaches. At each of these cities, the LFC coaches were assisted by a few local coaches. Almost 100 players in the scholarship category and more than 400 players in the paid category have been invited for the final round of selections in Pune.
In addition the nation-wide scouting program, Libero Sports has also been assisting the LIFA-DSK team in introduction and interview of some AFC ‘B’ License coaches who are interested in taking up a role of an assistant coach at the academy.
More details on LIFA-DSK can be found out at www.lfc-dskacademy.co.in
SOCCEREX AND LIBERO SPORTS RENEW PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT
Soccerex, the world’s largest football business event, and Libero Sports have renewed their partnership keeping India’s leading football consultancy as the official and exclusive representative of Soccerex for the Indian subcontinent.
Over the past few years Libero Sports, in partnership with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), have organized delegations to the Soccerex European Forum in Manchester. The Libero Sports - FICCI delegations are comprised of key decision makers within the Indian football industry who travel to Soccerex to network, conduct business and discuss global best practices in football. It was during the Soccerex European Forum 2013, the partnership between Liverpool FC and the DSK Group was forged creating the Liverpool International Football Academy – DSK Shivajians which is scheduled to launch in Pune next month.
The next delegation which will travel to the Soccerex Global Convention is scheduled for 6 – 10 September, 2014. Libero Sports and FICCI expect a group of 50 delegates to be a part the excursion to Manchester which will include the conference, a two day football festival and a stadium tour plus business presentation at the offices of a top Premier League club.
MATT BESLER PARTNERS WITH SPRINT
Libero client Matt Besler has partnered with Sprint Corporation to chronicle his FIFA World Cup experience in Brazil. Besler will give fans a unique perspective on his preparation for the World Cup and his experience throughout the tournament through his Sprint provided smartphone and mobile platform.
"We thank Libero Sports and its team for helping us build our squad at the beginning of the season. We were able to acquire talented players from them, who have played a vital role in Bengaluru FC winning the 2013-14 Airtel I-League."
Pradhyum Reddy | Asst. Coach, Bengaluru FC
Date: 05/28/2015LFC INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ACADEMY - DSK SHIVAJIANS NATIONWIDE TALENT HUNT A SUCCESS IN THE NORTHEAST
The first leg of the nationwide talent hunt by LFC International Football Academy – DSK Shivajians in the Northeast has been a hit, with a participation of more than 1,500 boys.
Libero Sports client, Liverpool International Football Academy - DSK Shivajians (LIFA-DSK), kicked off its nationwide scouting initiative from the Northeast of India where some of the country’s top talent resides. The first trial, which took place between March 17–20 in the Mizoram capital of Aizawl, saw 1,000 budding footballers show off their skills in front of the Liverpool FC coaches, with dreams of being selected for one of the 64 coveted spots in the U-19 and U-17 age group teams of the Pune based Academy. The second trial in the Northeast took place in Shillong between March 24–27 where 500 aspiring youth participated in the trials representing not just the host state of Meghalaya but many neighboring states as well.
Of the 1,500 trialists, around 30 were invited to the next round of the scouting programme. These hopefuls will join other recruits from the Delhi, Goa, and Mumbai trials and undergo a final selection to be held in June at the Liverpool International Football Academy DSK Shivajians in Pune. Liverpool FC and DSK Shivajians were overwhelmed with the general response and the quality of players they came across while talent scouting in the Northeast.
SESA FOOTBALL ACADEMY TOPS GOA LEG OF THE U-19 I-LEAGUE
Sesa Football Academy completed the first leg of the U-19 I-League at the top of the table remaining undefeated throughout the competition.
The Goa leg comprised of U-19 teams from the four I-League first division clubs – Churchill Brothers, Dempo SC, Salgaocar FC and Sporting Club de Goa. Sesa FA, which played its matches on its home ground in Sirsaim, saw their own Stephen Colaco as the competition’s leading goal scorer with 8 goals including a hat-trick against Dempo SC.
With its stellar performance, Sesa FA has qualified for the final round of the league where it will compete against the AIFF Academy, East Bengal, Shillong Lajong and one other TBD team at Tata Football Academy in Jamshedpur starting 21 April.
LIBERO SPORTS HAS SUCCESSFUL PRE-SEASON TRANSFER WINDOW IN THAILAND
Libero Sports successfully closed ten deals in Thailand this 2014 pre-season transfer window. Two of these transfers put the players within the top five highest paid earners in the league.
Completed Transfers:
Daiki Iwamasa to BEC Tero Sasana
Tereyuki Moniwa to Bangkok Glass
Georgie Welcome to BEC Tero Sasana
Scott Cooper (Head Coach) to Muangthong United
August Gustafsson to Buriram United
Norihiro Nishi to Police United
Genki Nagasato to Ratchaburi FC
Masahito Noto to Army United FC
Wellington Priori to Army United FC
Yuji Funayama to Army United FC
UILLIAMS BOMFIN AND CORNELL GLEN STAR FOR SHILLONG LAJONG FC, PICK UP MAN OF THE MATCH AWARDS
Libero clients Uilliams Bomfin and Cornell Glen both put in stellar performances for their club Shillong Lajong FC for the month of March in the Airtel I-League.
Uilliams scored both goals and picked up the Man of the Match as Shillong Lajong drew 2-2 away to Pune FC, whilst Cornell also scored a brace and set up one goal as Shillong Lajong swept aside table toppers Bengaluru FC in Shillong.
Elsewhere Libero clients Robin Singh and Thoi Singh scored vital goals for Bengaluru FC, while Rangdajied United FC’s North Korean striker Kim Song-Yong scored one and set up one in his team’s 4-0 drubbing of United Sports Club.
INDIA U-19 STRIKER UTTAM RAI SIGNS WITH GOAN GIANTS DEMPO SPORTS CLUB
Libero Sports is delighted to announce that Uttam Rai will join Dempo Sports Club. Uttam is one of the top prospects in Indian football and is currently with the AIFF U-19 Elite Academy in Goa. He chose the 3-time I-League champions after being courted by most of the top ranked clubs in country.
Rai has recently returned from an impressive stint with English Championship side Reading Football Club, where in he scored four goals for Reading FC’s development team during a series of friendly matches. Prior to his time in England, Uttam spent 6 months with the Colorado Rush Academy in the USA and also trained with MLS side, Chicago Fire.
A product of the Namchi Football Academy in Sikkim, Uttam trained at the IMG Soccer Academy in Bradenton, Florida between 2010 and 2012.
“I am thankful to Libero Sports for helping me with my transfer to BEC Tero. They were able to close the deal within hours of the transfer window deadline and were with me every step of the way to ensure that the transition from Honduras to Thailand wentas smoothly as possible.”
Georgie Welcome | Forward, BEC Tero
Date: 05/28/2015LIBERO SPORTS SERVES AS ‘KNOWLEDGE PARTNER’ FOR FICCI GOAL 2014
Libero Sports served as Knowledge Partner to the second edition of FICCI Goal 2014 – International Convention on Football Business in New Delhi on 13th and 14th February 2014. ‘Goal’ is a pioneering platform created by FICCI to promote business development of football in India and is ably supported by Libero Sports in its efforts.
The convention this year was well attended by representatives from the AIFF, FIFA, Qatar FA, academies, soccer schools, NGOs, agencies and educational institutions. The focus of various discussions was on exploring best practices in global football; benefits, opportunities and challenges of establishing football academies and soccer schools; preparations (technical) for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, generating ROI and leveraging CSR through football; and grassroots football in India. FICCI and Libero Sports India also released a white paper on the introduction to the FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017.
Highlights of FICCI Goal included Indian National Team Coach Wim Koovermans and Technical Director Rob Baan sharing their thoughts on the past, present and future of Indian football throughout various panel discussions. Also, AIFF leveraged the FICCI Goal platform to launch the Indian Football Awards where Sunil Chhetri received AIFF Player of Year and JeJe was awarded AIFF Young Player of Year among other awards distributed throughout the evening to deserving individuals and organizations.
SESA FOOTBALL ACADEMY RENEWS AGREEMENT WITH LIBERO SPORTS TO SERVE AS MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS FOR 3 MORE YEARS
Libero Sports completed the term and renewed its retainer contract for a period of 3 additional years as Management Consultants to their first consulting client and one of India’s finest residential football academies, Sesa Football Academy.
In the past 3 years, Libero Sports managed to achieve some big wins for the academy such as Chukwudi Chukwuma’s transfer to Czech Republic’s top division side, FK Teplice; transfer of two (2) other Sesa FA players to I-League clubs; securing a kitting partner contract with Nike; securing the services of two renowned international youth development experts from Europe to serve as Technical Director; opening up avenues for marketing and commercialization; establishing Sesa Football School; creating a long-term strategy and re-structuring administrative procedures among other support which India’s leading football consultancy provided Sesa FA.
ZOHIB ISLAM AMIRI OFF TO A FLIER AT DEMPO SC
Libero Sports client and Afghanistan skipper Zohib Islam Amiri has got off to a flying start for Dempo SC in the Airtel I-League after his move in the January transfer window from Mumbai FC.Amiri scored and won the Man of the Match award in Dempo’s 2-0 win over Rangdajied United Football Club and helped Dempo SC keep 2 consecutive clean sheets in wins over both Rangdajied UFC and Kolkata giants Kingfisher East Bengal.
Elsewhere Libero Sports clients United SC’s Liberian striker Eric Brown and Bengaluru FC’s Indian National Team striker Robin Singh scored vital goals for their teams as United SC drew 2-2 with Shillong Lajong FC and Bengaluru FC drew 1-1 with Mumbai FC.
LIBERO SPORTS - CONFERENCE SNAPSHOT
Libero Sports Managing Director Sukhvinder Singh and Libero Sports Director Neel Shah served on panels at the Confederation of Indian Industry Scorecard sports forum and Economic Times Future of Learning education conference respectively sharing their thoughts on ROI, football and education.
EDGAR CASTILLO CALLED INTO U.S. NATIONAL TEAM FOR FRIENDLY AGAINST UKRAINE
Edgar Castillo was called into the U.S. National Team for a friendly against Ukraine on the 5th March. The match against Ukraine is one of two opportunities for Castillo to cement his place in Jurgen Klinsmann's squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. Castillo has been in great form with Tijuana and will begin CONCACAF Champions League play in early March against MLS power L.A. Galaxy.
BRIGHT DIKE'S WORLD CUP DREAM ENDS WITH INJURY
Bright Dike's World Cup dream ended as the Nigerian forward tore his achilles tendon while in preseason training with Toronto FC. Dike had been called into the Nigeria National Team for a friendly against Mexico in early March and was a favorite to appear for the Super Eagles this summer in Brazil. Dike's World Cup chances were given a bolt when he scored against Italy earlier in November 2013. He will rehab in Toronto as he works to rejoin the TFC squad by August.
“I would recommend the FICCI Goal event to anyone looking to learn about the Indian Football industry. The event provided me with the opportunity to interact with a variety of organisations from within the world of football and helped me gain a greater understanding of how the game is being developed from grassroots through to elite level in India. I would like to thank FICCI and Libero Sports for inviting me to be part of the event."
Grant Cornwell | Chief Executive, Tottenham Hotspur Foundation
Date: 05/28/20153RD EDITION OF FICCI GOAL, INDIA’S LARGEST FOOTBALL CONFERENCE SET TO TAKE PLACE IN DELHI FEBRUARY 12 & 13
The convention will be held at the FICCI Federation House and will include a conference, B2B meetings, networking lunch and dinner and exhibitions besides annual India Sports & Indian Football Awards. Libero Sports are the knowledge partners to this event.
To register for the event, you can contact FICCI at +911123487-561/283 or sports@ficci.com
The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) have confirmed that FICCI GOAL 2015 will take place February 12 & 13 at the FICCI Federation House in Delhi. This will be the third edition of India’s largest international convention on the business of football. The conference aims to provide a platform for relevant global and domestic industry stakeholders to discuss the beautiful game in India offering a key focus on the various business opportunities unfolding along with the rapid growth of the Indian football ecosystem.
FICCI GOAL is a pioneering initiative established by FICCI and AIFF and supported by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports as way to support the development and sustainability of the Indian football industry and promote strategic dialogue around the game. “GOAL 2015” will look to build off of the success of its previous two editions where filled to capacity crowds attended the high profile sessions and networking events.
Many key influencers and organisations tasked with shaping up the present and future of the game in India will be participating at FICCI GOAL including the Government of India, FIFA, AIFF, I-League, Indian Super League, Premier League and the Asian Football Development Project.
LIBERO SPORTS CLIENTS OFF TO A FLYING START IN THE 2014-15 HERO I-LEAGUE
Libero Sports clients have made vital contributions for their respective teams in the initial stages of the 2014-15 Hero I-League.
Trinidad & Tobago World Cupper, Densill Theobald & North Korean National Team striker, Kim Song-Yong have helped I-League new entrants, Royal Wahingdoh FC to the top of the 2014-15 Hero I-League table, with 3 wins out of 3. Theobald has controlled the proceedings from midfield for the Royals whilst Kim scored an important goal in their 2-1 win away to Kalyani Bharat FC.
Elsewhere, McDowell Mohun Bagan AC’s Japanese medio, Katsumi Yusa was awarded the ‘Hero of the Match’ for his 2 goals in his team’s 3-1 thrashing of Mumbai FC in round 1, and Shillong Lajong FC’s custodian TP Rehenesh won the ‘Hero of the Match’ for his outstanding displays under the bar as his team beat Mumbai FC 1-0 at home in round 2 of the 2014-15 Hero I-League.
English Centre-Back and Dempo SC’s captain, Calum Angus has been a vital cog at the back for his club as the team has kept a clean sheet in all 3 games, winning one and drawing the other 2 matches.
LIBERO SPORTS CLIENT ROBIN SINGH WINS THE 2014-15 HERO FEDERATION CUP FOR BENGALURU FC
Bengaluru FC and Indian National Team striker, Robin Singh played a major role in Bengaluru FC’s triumph at the 2014-15 Hero Federation Cup.Robin scored with a powerful header in the 65th minute which turned out to be the all-important match winner against Dempo SC in the final of the 2014-15 Hero Federation Cup, as Bengaluru FC went on to win 2-1 and lift their maiden Federation Cup trophy.
ELIAS VASQUEZ TRANSFERS TO REAL SALT LAKE IN MLS
Guatemalan national team defender, Elias Vasquez, has transferred to Real Salt Lake in MLS. Vasquez, only 22 years old, already has 25 appearances for Guatemala. His experience in the CONCACAF Champions League was crucial in securing his dream move to the United States. As Real Salt Lake look to compete on three fronts in 2015, Vasquez’s experience and versatility will give him the platform to secure a starting position in one of the best clubs in MLS and the region. Vasquez turned down offers in Uruguay and his home country to sign with Real Salt Lake.
LIBERO SPORTS CLIENT ROBERT CULLEN SIGNS FOR SEOUL E-LAND FC
Japanese striker, Robert Cullen, has signed for K-League Challenge team Seoul E-Land FC. Cullen brings with him invaluable experience having played in the Dutch top division for VVV Venlo and top clubs in the Japanese J-league.
“I’m looking forward to GOAL 2015. With the strengthening of the I-league, launch of the Indian Super League and planning underway for India to host the 2017 U-17 FIFA World Cup, 2014 has been a monumental year for Indian football. FICCI GOAL offers the perfect platform for industry stakeholders to come together to celebrate the past and, more importantly, continue shaping the future of the sport in this country.”
KUSHAL DAS | AIFF GENERAL SECRETARY
Date: 05/28/2015GOA BASED SESA FOOTBALL ACADEMY PLAYER SIGNS CONTRACT WITH CZECH TOP DIVISION SIDE FK TEPLICE
Libero Client and Sesa Football Academy striker, Chukwudi Chukwuma, signed a long term deal with FK Teplice, a top division club in the Czech Republic Gambrinus Liga. This signing comes after Chukwuma, who has been part of the Goa based Academy since 2010, impressed FK Teplice technical staff with his consistent play and goal in a friendly match win against Meteor Praha FC while on invitation for a 10 day trial with the club.This is the first time that a player from an Indian football academy has secured a professional contract with a top division side in Europe. The invitation for the trial came as a result of Chukwuma’s solid performances while representing Sesa Football Academy in the Goa Pro League and U20 I-League.
SESA FOOTBALL ACADEMY PLAYER, GLAN MARTINS, INVITED TO TRIAL IN THE UNITED STATES
After the recent successful transfer of Chukwudi Chukwuma to FK Teplice in the Czech Republic, another Sesa Football Academy player is set to go on trial internationally. Libero Sports India, through its deep network within the US soccer industry, has secured a trial invitation for 19 year old Glan Martins to participate in the USL Pro combine.
The trial will take place 24 – 26 January, 2014 at the world-class IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.
I-LEAGUE ROUNDUP
Libero Sports athletes have played an important role in helping Bengaluru FC top the table at the half way stage of the 2013-14 Airtel I-League.
Robin Singh and Johnny Menyongar scored crucial goals for Bengaluru FC while Thoi Singh picked up the Man of the Match award for his industrious performance against Salgaocar FC.
Libero Sports athlete and Rangdajied United FC's North Korean striker, Kim Song Yong, also had a good month, scoring a goal apiece in matches against East Bengal FC and Pune FC, and picking up the Man of the Match award for his impressive performance against the strong Pune side.
MATT BESLER ENDS STELLAR YEAR WITH AN MLS CUP
Libero client and Sporting KC defender, Matt Besler, ended the year winning an MLS Cup in front of family, friends and thousands of supporters in his hometown of Kansas City, Kanas. Besler played the entire 120 minutes in his club’s penalty shootout win over Real Salt Lake.
The 26 year old had a stellar year not only winning his first MLS Cup, but also helping the US National Team qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup and being nominated for Defender of the Year during Major League Soccer’s annual awards ceremony.
LIBERO SPORTS INDIA SERVES AS CONSULTING PARTNERS FOR SPORTZPOWER’S INDIA PRO LEAGUES FORUM
Libero Sports India took part in SportzPower’s India Pro Leagues Forum hosted on 13 December at the India Habitat Centre.
In addition to serving as “Consulting Partner” for the day long discussion on the present and future of Indian sports leagues, Libero Sports India Managing Director, Sukhvinder Singh, participated on a panel sharing his thoughts on what it takes for India to grow its club culture.
2014 FICCI GOAL TO TAKE PLACE FEBRUARY 13 & 14, 2014
The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) has announced the dates for the second edition of their GOAL conference which is to take place in Delhi February 13 & 14. FICCI Goal, supported by the All India Football Federation and Ministry of Sports & Youth Affairs, is the biggest convention on the business of football hosted in India and brings together hundreds of key influencers within the global and Indian football industries for 2 days of strategic dialogue around the beautiful game. Conference organizers, FICCI and Libero Sports India, are confident that the 2014 edition of FICCI GOAL will exceed participant, profile and content expectations given the recent announcement of India hosting the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup and growing interest around IMG-Reliance’s India Super League scheduled to launch September 2014.
“We are elated and extremely proud that Chukwudi has signed with European club FK Teplice as our objective for the Academy is to provide opportunities for youth to reach the highest levels professionally. Chukwudi has worked extremely hard over the past 4 years at Sesa Football Academy and all our wishes are with him. We hope that he carries the brand of Sesa FA well and has a very successful career in Europe. I appreciate Libero Sports India for their efforts in helping to make this dream a reality for Chukwudi and for Sesa Football Academy.”
P. K. Mukherjee | Executive Director of Sesa Sterlite
Date: 05/28/2015LIBERO SPORTS PLAYERS SHINE: BRIGHT DIKE SCORES FOR NIGERIA VS ITALY, BESLER LOOKS TO END YEAR WITH AN MLS CUP
Bright Dike scored against European power and former World Cup champions, Italy, on 18 November 2013. Dike's first half goal evened the score, which eventually ended in a 2-2 draw with open action throughout. Dike was on the bench for Nigeria two days earlier as they defeated Ethiopia to qualify for next summer's FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
Dike's performance against Italy raised his chances of making the Nigerian squad next summer. Reports in Scotland and the U.S. have linked Dike to Scottish giants Celtic FC for a potential move this winter transfer window.
Matt Besler, Dike's college teammate, finished runner up for MLS Defender of the Year, after winning the same award last season. Besler has enjoyed a banner year, cementing himself as Jurgen Klinsmann's top center back with the U.S. National Team along with leading his club, Sporting Kansas City, to the MLS Cup Final on 7 December 2013.
LIBERO SPORTS INDIA APPOINTED AS MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT FOR THE LIVERPOOL INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ACADEMY DSK
After successfully facilitating a partnership between one of the world’s most coveted football clubs, Liverpool FC, and Pune based DSK Shivajians FC, to establish India’s first International football club residential academy, Libero Sports India has been appointed by the Liverpool International Football Academy DSK to serve as its ‘Management Consultant.’
India’s leading football consultancy will tap into its deep understanding of global best practices and first hand experiences working with Indian academies Sesa FA and Tata FA to guide all areas of the Liverpool International Football Academy DSK including Strategy, Administration, Technical Staffing, Talent Management, Marketing, Strategic Partnerships and Commercialization.
Trials for the Academy will begin in early 2014 with its official launch to take place later in the year.
UILLIAMS, MEYER & BROWN SCORE MATCH WINNERS
Libero Sports players Uilliams Bomfim Souza (Shillong Lajong FC), James Meyer (Pune FC) and Eric Brown (United SC) scored crucial match winning goals for their respective teams in the I-League for the month of November.
Uilliams scored both goals and also picked up the Man of the Match award in Shillong Lajong’s 2-1 victory over Mohammedan Sporting. James Meyer downed Bengaluru FC with a stunning finish as Pune FC ran out 1-0 winners. United SC had to thank Eric Brown for his double strike which helped them win 2-1 away at Goan giants, Dempo SC.
Rangdajied United FC’s Yohei Iwasaki also scored in the Shillong Derby and won the Man of the Match award in his sides 1-1 draw with Shillong Lajong FC.
Johnny Menyongar picked up the Man of the Match award away to Mumbai FC and ended the month with a sublime goal in Bengaluru FC’s 2-1 away win. against Salgaocar FC.
LIBERO SPORTS SPONSORS MOHUN BAGAN HOME I-LEAGUE MATCHES
Libero Sports India became part of the historic "Kolkata Derby" by serving as a sponsor for Mohun Bagan Athletic Club.
As a part of the sponsorship deal between these organizations, the football consultancy was given 2 Libero Sports perimeter boards for a pair of high profile Mohun Bagan home matches hosted at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium on 24th November against arch rivals East Bengal FC and on 27th November against Mohammedan Sporting.
Both these are highly anticipated fixtures during the 20I3-2014 I-League season, with the Kolkata derby drawing over 80,000 people and the Mohammedan Sporting match 45,000.
“Libero Sports has not only supported our club by providing exceptional talent, they are making great strides in professionalizing the Indian football industry. Our entire organization is pleased to have them sponsor our 2 biggest home matches of this I-League season."
Debashis Dutta | Hon. Finance Secretary, McDowells Mohun Bagan AC
Date: 05/28/2015LIBERO SPORTS INDIA FACILITATES HISTORIC PARTNERSHIP TO ESTABLISH A LIVERPOOL FC RESIDENTIAL ACADEMY IN INDIA
On October 16 Libero Sports India client DSK Shivajians FC and members of Liverpool FC announced a landmark partnership to establish the first premier league club branded residential Academy in Asia. This exciting partnership was the outcome of months of efforts invested by Libero Sports India to build out a plan to establish a world class Academy in India, identify an international club who could turn concept into a reality and then forge a relationship between the two parties.
The LFC International Football Academy – DSK will be open to aspiring youth footballers up to the age of 18 and provide these players with the opportunity to develop their game in a professional academy environment. The Academy will be located on the DSK Supinfocom campus in Pune and will officially open in early 2014 once coaches from Liverpool FC have identified and trained local coaches and selected the first batch of cadets to join the Academy.
LIBERO SPORTS INDIA PLAYERS REVEL IN AWESOME OCTOBER
Libero Sports India players had a very successful month of October in the I-League. There were 8 goals scored by Libero Sports India players and 7 Man of the Match awards picked up by them individually.
Shillong Lajong’s Cornell Glen, Bengaluru FC’s Siam Hanghal, Mohun Bagan’s Katsumi Yusa and Pune FC’s James Meyer and Calum Angus were amongst the goal scorers whilst Glen, Hanghal, Yusa, Angus and United Sports Club’s Eric Brown won Man of the Match awards for their outstanding displays in the I-League during the month of October.
LIBERO SPORTS INDIA SIGNS AFGHANISTAN NATIONAL TEAM CAPTAIN ZOHIB ISLAM AMIRI
Afghanistan National Team and Mumbai FC Captain Zohib Islam Amiri has signed up with Libero Sports India.
Amiri’s performances over the last 2 years for club and country have been remarkable, making him one of the best central defenders in Southeast Asia. Amiri recently captained the Afghanistan National Team to victory in the 2013 SAFF Cup, where he played a pivotal role in the final, defeating India 2-0. He was also voted as the FPAI Fans’ Player of the Year for 2012-2013 in India.
Libero Sports India will now exclusively manage all of Amiri’s worldwide club contracts and commercial rights.
PUNE FC CENTER BACK CALUM ANGUS MAKES IT 5 IN 5
Libero Sports India athlete and Pune FC’s English Centre Back, Calum Angus, has taken the I-League by storm.
Calum has put in some brilliant performances for Pune FC in their first 5 games, picking up the Man of the Match award in all of them. Calum also scored match winners against defending champions Churchill Brothers and Rangdajied United as well as helping Pune FC keep 4 clean sheets from the first 5 matches.
LIBERO SPORTS & USMNT PLAYERS MATT BESLER & EDGAR CASTILLO HELP UNITED STATES QUALIFY FOR THE 2014 FIFA WORLD CUP
Defenders Matt Besler and Edgar Castillo both played important roles to help the US National team qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The Americans qualified in dominating fashion topping their qualifying group and remaining undefeated at home where they didn’t even allow a single goal during qualifying. Matt Belser plays for MLS leading franchise Sporting KC andCastillo is with Club Tijuana in Mexico. The US, currently ranked 13th in the latest FIFA rankings, have matches scheduled against Scotland and Austria in November as they prepare for the FIFA World Cup in Brazil next summer.
"Liverpool FC appreciates the efforts of Libero Sports in paving the way for our club to establish LFC International Football Academy – DSK, a first of its kind initiative in India. We have millions of fans in India and through Libero Sports’ deep network and knowledge of the Indian football industry, we have been able to make this partnership a reality and bring the Club closer to our LFC family in India."
Billy Hogan | Chief Commercial Officer, Liverpool Football Club
Date: 05/27/2015Libero Sports with Songyong Kim
Date: 06/04/2015Libero Sports uploaded a new video from May 30 to their timeline.
Date: 05/31/2015Libero Sports with Shankar Sampingiraj and 3 others
Date: 05/25/2015Libero Sports with Rai Uttam
Date: 05/23/2015Libero Sports added a new photo.
Date: 05/22/2015Libero Sports added a new photo.
Date: 05/18/2015Libero Sports added 3 new photos.
Date: 05/18/2015