The Sportz Planet Game Changer Summit 2023 brought together a diverse panel of influential individuals from the sports industry, each having made significant contributions to the world of sports. The panel included Sudhanshu Fadnis, Founder & Director of Sports Seed; Ashish Kumar Rawat, Ambassador of the International Physical Literacy Association; Rahul Chabra, involved in Sports Partnerships & Consulting, Sportscasting, and shaping Indian MMA through Matrix Fight Night; Sibtain Baqri, Co-Founder & Chief Sporting Officer at Fairstreet Sports (MotoGP Bharat); and Mr. Ravikumar Srinivasan, Vice President Grassroots Sports at TENVIC Sports.
Key Discussion Points:
1. Holistic Approach of Physical Literacy:
The panel delved into the concept of Physical Literacy, emphasizing its holistic nature compared to the sports education taught in schools. Recognizing the importance of understanding the needs of children and athletes, they highlighted the significance of tailoring sports initiatives based on individual requirements rather than a one-size-fits-all curriculum.
2. MMA’s Identity and Youth Engagement:
The discussion shifted to Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), exploring how the sport identifies itself and its strategies for raising awareness among the younger generation. Panelists highlighted the importance of initiatives such as Anti-Bullying Workshops and building self-confidence to promote MMA among school-going kids.
3. Unraveling the World of MotoGP in India:
The conversation pivoted to MotoGP, seeking to demystify the sport and understand its future in a country like India. The panelists explored ways to make MotoGP more accessible and appealing to the Indian audience, addressing challenges and opportunities in promoting motorbike racing.
4. Broadcasting Trends in Niche Sports:
A comparative analysis of broadcasting trends in sports like MMA and MotoGP against cricket was a focal point. The panelists discussed the unique challenges and advantages these sports present, considering their quick play duration, individual nature, and the thrilling experience they offer to spectators.
5. Creating Pathways for Aspiring Athletes:
The discussion concluded with a focus on creating pathways for school-going children in the realm of sports. Panelists emphasized the need to provide opportunities for children to identify their aspirations in the sporting world, fostering a supportive environment for young talent.
Conclusion:
This panel discussion provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of sports in India. From redefining education through Physical Literacy to the unique challenges and opportunities presented by niche sports like MMA and MotoGP, the panelists offered a comprehensive view of the industry. The importance of tailoring sports initiatives to individual needs, promoting inclusivity, and creating pathways for aspiring athletes emerged as key takeaways. As the sporting world continues to evolve, forums like these play a crucial role in shaping the future, fostering innovation, and inspiring the next generation of athletes.
