The introduction of artificial football turf in Senapati district has sparked a remarkable transformation, positively impacting not only the business landscape but also the health and fitness of the local population. While football has long been the region’s favorite sport, the installation of the turf has breathed new life into the game, drawing people of all ages to the field and fostering a vibrant culture centered on physical activity and well-being.
A Football Revolution Takes Root
Football has always held a special place in the hearts of the people of Senapati, but the advent of artificial turf has revolutionized how the game is played and perceived. Prior to the turf’s introduction, finding suitable, consistent playing grounds was a challenge. Natural grass fields would often deteriorate during rainy seasons, limiting opportunities for players. With the new artificial turf, which is durable and weather-resistant, football has become a year-round activity, attracting a wide range of players, from children to seniors.
What was once a pastime reserved for the younger generation has evolved into a community-wide movement. The turf has become a gathering point where people come together to play, exercise, and socialize. For many, football is no longer just a sport but an essential part of their daily routine—a way to stay active, competitive, and healthy.
Health Benefits: A Game-Changer
The health benefits brought about by the introduction of the artificial turf cannot be overstated. Senapati, like many other districts, has seen a rise in lifestyle-related health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. The traditionally festive culture, characterized by regular feasting, has also contributed to these problems, with the lack of physical activity compounding the health risks. The new turf, however, has provided an accessible solution to this growing concern.
With the arrival of the turf, people have embraced football as a way to counteract these health problems. The sport is a full-body workout, promoting cardiovascular health, enhancing stamina, and improving coordination. Older adults, who previously had limited options for physical activity, have found in football a fun and effective way to stay fit. In fact, tournaments for older age groups, including players over 60, have been introduced to encourage people to maintain an active lifestyle well into their later years.
Uniting the Community Across Generations
Football has always been a unifying force, and with the artificial turf, it has become even more so. Grassroots tournaments and community-wide competitions now include players of all ages, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration across generations. Whether it’s young children developing their skills or older adults playing to stay in shape, the shared love of football has strengthened the bonds within the community.
These tournaments have also provided opportunities for local businesses. Sports equipment shops, cafes, and vendors near the turf have experienced a boost in sales, creating a vibrant economic ecosystem around the football culture. Events and tournaments attract not only local participants but also spectators from neighboring regions, further contributing to the district’s economy.
A Lasting Impact
Five years on, the artificial football turf in Senapati has left an indelible mark on the district. It has ushered in a new era of football culture, one that is as much about health and fitness as it is about competition and fun. The turf has transformed the game from a seasonal activity into a daily routine, bringing people together and improving lives, both on and off the field.
The turf’s impact on the community has been profound, offering a practical solution to health challenges and fostering a culture of fitness. As the people of Senapati continue to embrace football for its health benefits, the district stands as an inspiring example of how sports infrastructure can positively shape both physical well-being and the social fabric of a community.
Testimonials
1.Roli Washington
‘Senapati, a modest town is where I grew up. Known for jovial nature and love for sports. The environment provided me with ample opportunity to satiate my passion for outdoor sports with limited infrastructure then, down the memory lane Senapatians are improvised sport enthusiasts. I grew up playing plastic wrapped balls in a given space or even balls made of bamboos, improvised cricket bats and stamps played in ankle deep puddle ground. But now with this new culture of playing in artificial turfs gave me a new found passion to my long lost passion in playing football and keeping up with good health ‘
2. Kaisu Arche
The coming of Astro Turf to our district has brought a significant change to the beautiful game of football.
1 Ability to conduct games in all seasons
2. A growth of professional players from the district in the state and national scene.
3. Prevented Injuries to players.
4. World Class facilities at our doorsteps.
5. Have created a new vibe and enthusiasm for fitness for the young and the old alike
3. Joram Koveo
A well developed sports infrastructure benifits not only the growth of professional sports ecosystem but also impact in manifold for the older section of our society too , which have far- reaching consequences for physical health.The introduction of multiple astro turf playing field both mini & large size is a treat for me to revisit my desire to play in a better playing field(as denied during my younger years due to lack of sports facilities ).Now the better sports facilities have pushed me to engage myself in physical activities as a weekly affairs which helps me in maintaining my physical well-being at large.
4. Karang Rangnamei
“Ever since the artificial football turf came to Senapati, my life has changed for the better. At 45, I was beginning to feel the weight of a sedentary lifestyle, but now, playing football regularly has kept me fit and energized. The turf has made it so easy for people like me to stay active, and it’s become a part of my daily routine. I encourage everyone, no matter their age, to get out there, sweat a little, and experience the joy of the game while maintaining good health.”
