LAHORE: Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Syed Mohsen Gilani has underscored the important role of departmental sports in nurturing the talent and strengthening Pakistan’s national sporting structure, describing departments as the backbone of the country’s sporting success.
Speaking on the development of football in Pakistan, Gilani emphasised that departmental teams have historically played a pivotal role in identifying, grooming and sustaining talent at the grassroots and elite levels. “Departments have always been the backbone of Pakistan’s sporting success,” Gilani said.
“Their contribution to nurturing talent, instilling discipline and promoting healthy competition is unmatched. The foundation of our national sporting achievements has largely been built on the support and structure provided by departmental sports.”
Highlighting the need to revive and strengthen departmental football, the PFF president pointed to recent national-level competitions as clear evidence of their importance. “The revival and continued support of departmental football is essential for the future of the game in Pakistan,” he stated. “The recent National Games clearly demonstrated this, as all the finalist teams represented different departments. This reflects the vital role departments play in shaping athletes and inspiring young talent across the country.”
Gilani expressed confidence in the Pakistan Football Federation’s ongoing initiatives aimed at reinforcing departmental sports and expanding competitive opportunities for players. “Our focus remains on strengthening departmental sports programs, organising structured and competitive events, and providing platforms where talented footballers can showcase their abilities,” he said. “These efforts are aimed at building a vibrant football culture that brings pride, recognition and long-term sustainability to Pakistan football.”
