An afternoon spent at East Bengal Club, Kolkata

On a November afternoon, I was cordially invited by Mr. Kalyan Majumdar to visit KEB Football Club to observe the new development/improvements made to their facility. I have visited the Premier Football clubs in Brazil & USA. These clubs meet all the requirements of International FIFA standards and requirements.

The following are my observations:

• As I entered the club, the electronic sliding gate opened to let me in. I was impressed with the security system. Next to the entrance, I saw a manicured lawn with room for flowers to grow. It was very soothing to see such an aesthetic/green garden. One could easily meditate and write poetry there.

• I saw the hall room full of trophies proudly displayed, specially the ASEAN CUP.

• The conference room looked impressive.

• The dressing room for East Bengal players was a state of the art facility.

• The gym had all the exercise equipment that a footballer needs to be physically fit.

• Steam jacuzzi and sauna were available for the athletes.

• Nutritional diets are advised.

• Last but not the least, the showers/toilets were very clean, meeting international standards.

Executive Summary:

I was pleasantly surprised with such magnificent improvements to the club facility under the direction of Mr. Kalyan Majumdar, Hony. General Secretary. He has definitely raised the bar for other premier football clubs to follow and try to measure up.

Recommendations:

In the near future, the club facility should have a small enclosed ground filled with sand; the players can play in the sand to learn better ball control. A volleyball court or indoor table tennis board should be made available to the players for relaxation and stress relief. Maybe even an indoor swimming pool for aqua therapy/exercise if permissible by the Army Authority.

I have also observed dedicated elected club officials doing an equivalent of a full time job, going above and beyond their voluntary requirements. I have noticed that such elected officials are always compensated either with a salary or compensation for transportation and meals in Brazil and the USA.

In order to retain competent executives/volunteers, a club needs to be thoughtful and considerate, and reward their long tireless efforts to keep the club up to the high FIFA Standards. As they say in the USA, hold on to your “ASSETS”.

May God Bless KEB Football Club for their continuous improvement as they strive for excellence.