India is focussing on the grassroots development in sports. John Gloster knows this, and hence the upcoming Under-17 Fifa world cup has got the former Indian cricket team physiotherapist shaping the young kids in Mumbai. With an impressive resume that includes the Indian cricket team, Indian Premier League, Pakistan Super League and Masters Champions League tournaments, Gloster is now associated with KOOH Sports- an Education, Training & Technology Company that nurture young talent.
“I am involved with KOOH Sports (India), and my passion is Sports Education. Promoting Health & Fitness has always been on my agenda. I now look forward to educating the Indian mindset beyond cricket and extend it to other league sports”, he adds.
Gloster has worked with the greats of the game, but now he loves to engage kids and make fitness a fun exercise for them and physical activity as a fun thing to do, and they will respond positively,” he states.
“It’s about changing the health and fitness goals of this country and during that process identifying promising athletes. Basic athletic principles of balance, co-ordination, run, hop and jump should be introduced during the early years of 2 to 5 years. It ought to be an integral part of every school environment, thereby providing children with a platform to experiment and pursue sports as a preferred career option,” Gloster stresses.
Gloster comes from Australia, where sports is a world class discipline. In his opinion, India too can excel provided there is a shift in the overall mindset, with a focus on fitness.
“India has always excelled in skill-based sports. Through KOOH Sports, I am hoping to influence the next generation to find their passion and be serious about it. It will take time, but I am confident the change will come,” he says optimistically.
Gloster’s recipe to avoid injuries is to focus hard on preparations. “Train your body regularly and prepare to recover from physical exertion via exercise and rest in equal measure.”
