Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part H (2025)

The Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) conducts an extensive sports meet for various sports disciplines each academic year concluding with a KVS level national meet. It serves as budding platform for higher order nationals as well as international school games. Citing this importance, this study aimed to shed light on the selection and preparation philosophies adopted during one of the prominent sports disciplines, the U17 Football Boys, at the 54th KVS National Meet 2025, as it requires deliberation of building a mixed team from all the KV schools within a region.
A qualitative analysis was carried out to collect the data through a google form and after careful study of responses 8 out of all the entries were included for analysis. Findings revealed a pragmatic guiding philosophy amongst the coaches/selectors, which is driven by the non-standard environment, short preparatory periods and players coming from different schools. Further, 87.5% of regions reported technical passing as their predominant style and 75% prioritized selecting individually talented players over a cohesive group. Technical skills was voted as top priority for player selection, followed by mental toughness and X-factor. Limited exposure to competitive matches is perceived as the most urgent challenge faced according to 62.5% regions. Citing the time constraint the ranking exercise revealed playing practice matches to be of highest priorities during preparatory camps. while individual skill development is of lowest concern. Additionally, upon zonal comparison, distinct regional choices were pronounced. In conclusion, the pragmatic approach of the coaches/selectors is a necessary means due to unique challenges and limited time frame available to prepare. The findings may serve as a needs analysis for KVS sports administrators and indirectly contributing to future player development. Empirical studies are further suggested based on the findings; also similar studies can be planned for other prominent sports disciplines.