Airtel Rising Star Talent Hunt Launched by Aitel and Manachester United

Airtel launched Airtel Rising Star in association with Manchester United, England on 25 June 2012 to provide exposure to young footballer’s talents. The talent hunt also strengthens brand positioning and appeal to youth to enhance football in countries like India. 

The three month talent hunt is starting from mid of July. It would likely to have 9500 Under-16 players. Including Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, the hunt will be conducted in 16 cities in India (including Mumbai, Delhi, Goa, Kolkata, Bangalore, Calicut, Chandigarh and Jaipur) with the support of the State and District Football Associations of the cities.

The best three players from each of the 16 cities will be sent to attend a final six-day camp-cum-selection trial which is conducted by coaches from Manchester United. All the 48 players will be divided into four teams. Each team has 12 players. Then the 4 teams will be screened on all parameters like physical attributes, individual skills, match situations and on their performances in actual matches. Then the selected 12 best players will be sent to Manchester United for a week, where they are trained by the Manchester United Academy team, England. Finally, three players will be chosen and given support to enhance their skills further. This would likely to be the once-in-lifetime opportunity for the youngsters.