Transforming Sambalpur Football Academy: A New Era for Odisha's Football Training

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has unveiled plans to transform the Sambalpur Football Academy into a world-class training facility with a Rs 15 crore investment. This upgrade will include FIFA-standard pitches and futsal courts, aimed at nurturing young football talent in Odisha. Starting this year, the academy will provide residential training for 30 selected players under 14, ensuring they receive professional coaching and education. Established in 2007, the academy has a strong track record of producing skilled players who have represented Odisha at national levels. With these enhancements, the academy is set to play a pivotal role in the future of football in the state.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 7, 2026, 09:53 IST

A Major Upgrade for Football in Odisha

Sambalpur/Bhubaneswar: On Saturday, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi revealed plans to elevate the Sambalpur Football Academy into a premier training facility, backed by an investment of Rs 15 crore to develop FIFA-standard infrastructure.

During his inspection of the academy in Sambalpur, Majhi commended its role in fostering football talent within the state. He stated, “The academy will soon feature three full-sized football pitches that meet FIFA standards, along with two modern futsal courts, which will greatly enhance Odisha’s football framework.”

The project will utilize Rs 15 crore for its execution. Speaking to attendees, Majhi praised the academy’s dedication to advancing sports. Acknowledging its impact on grassroots football, the state government has assigned the academy a new role in the annual CM Cup Football Tournament initiative.

Starting this year, the academy will offer high-quality residential training to 30 promising footballers under the age of 14, selected through the grassroots-level CM Cup competition. The Chief Minister assured that these players would benefit from complimentary professional coaching, accommodation, meals, and quality education.

Efforts are also underway to facilitate their enrollment in local educational institutions, ensuring their academic growth alongside athletic training. Majhi expressed optimism about the academy’s prospects, stating that with enhanced infrastructure and superior coaching facilities, the Sambalpur Football Academy is poised to continue producing exceptional football talent and contribute to Odisha’s sporting achievements in the future.

Founded in 2007 as part of the Samaleswari Sporting Club, the academy has established itself as one of Odisha’s premier football training centers, nurturing hundreds of skilled players over the years. Numerous trainees have represented Odisha in national competitions across various age groups, earning accolades for the state.

Notable attendees during the visit included Panchayati Raj Minister Rabi Narayan Naik, Sambalpur MLA Jayanarayan Mishra, state BJP president and Rajya Sabha MP Manmohan Samal, former MLA Nauri Naik, IG Himanshu Lal, and Sambalpur Collector Siddheshwar Baliram Bondar.