The growing attraction of boys to play late at night on football fields in the state has become a matter of serious concern as Childline is raising the alarm against not only irreparable injuries, but also sex and drug abuse.
Scores of under-18 night football tournaments are being organized across the state, especially in Malappuram district, which certainly enjoys the most turf.
“If we are concerned about our rights, we should have clear by-laws or guidelines for children playing late at night on the turf,” said Anwar Karakkadan, Childline district coordinator.
health risk
Boys are said to put their health at risk – both mental and physical – by playing football intermittently throughout the night. According to professional football coach Shajiruddin Koppilan, allowing children to play on the turf after midnight would be injurious to their health.
“Turf should be closed at 12 midnight. Letting people, especially children, play after midnight can give negative consequences. This is the time when our body and mind need rest,” said Mr. Koppilan. .
It is feared that sleeping and eating food continuously throughout the night can cause damage. In professional football, the first day after a match is used for recovery and the second day for complete rest.
abuse report
Childline has taken up this matter after sporadic reports of child abuse under the guise of night football. “Even as we encourage children in sports, the sports department should take the initiative to formulate some guidelines to help our children in their mental and physical health. It is also our responsibility to prevent any kind of misbehavior with our children,” said Mr. Karakkadan.
Neither the turf owners nor the tournament organizers, nor the clubs or teams take responsibility for injuries that children inflict on the turf.
Children are playing without proper practice, especially in tournaments that run overnight.
According to experts, most of the turf is prepared in an unscientific manner and does not undergo regular maintenance. “Natural grass requires good maintenance. We have turfs for long term business purpose,” said Mr. Koppillan.
be sure to supervise
He suggested that permission and supervision of an organization like Childline should be made mandatory for children’s night tournaments.
Physiotherapy specialist CP Abubakar said that children should not be discouraged from playing on the turf. “We need certain norms to check the misuse and abuse of our rights. Let our children play under maximum supervision,” Dr Abubakar said.
According to him, football helps children develop well by providing maximum stimulation of the senses. “The endorphins produced in our brains through sports, especially football, can substantially prevent our children from becoming victims of other abuse,” said Dr. Abubacker.