Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 05:
The first ever baseball development camp conducted by American coaches kick off today at Khuman Lampak.
The camp christened 'Camp Manipur' was a part of the US-Manipur Baseball Project (First Pitch).
The inaugural function of the camp sponsored by Major League Baseball International (MLBI) and the US Embassy in India was attended by Works Minister and CM in-charge Th Debendra as chief guest.
The function presided by Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Govindas Konthoujam was also graced by MLBI coaches Jeff Brueggemann, David Palese and chairman of US-Manipur Baseball project (First Pitch) Muriel Peters as guests of honour.
Speaking on the occasion Th Debendra exuded confidence that the camp would benefit the baseball players of Manipur to a great extent.
He declared that the State Government would consider establishment of baseball park in Manipur so that the game of baseball can be developed properly.
Debendra announced that the State Government would put in all possible efforts to make Manipur the baseball centre of India.
A recorded message of the US Consul General in Kolkata, Henry V Jardine was also conveyed to the people attending the inaugural function of the 'Camp Manipur' which is being participated by more than 100 players and 30 coaches.
A press release issued by the Public Affairs Office of US Consulate General, Kolkata in connection with the 'Camp Manipur' informed that such training sessions under MLBI's Envoy Coach Programme would also be organised at Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, Hyderabad, Chandigarh and Chennai.
According to the press release, the US Department of State has borne the entire cost of the shipment of equipment from the US to different India cities including Imphal.
The Public Affairs Office of the US Embassy is supporting the baseball coaches' stay in India.
'Camp Manipur' which kicked off today would continue
till November 13.