People should play sports not only to turn pro but also to stay fit, says Somdev Devvarman

Former Indian tennis star Somdev Devvarman has highlighted the importance of sports in maintaining fitness.

In an interview to IANS Devvarman said, "At the end of the day the participation (in sports) should increase for for better results, people should play sports not only to turn pro but also stay fit."

Devvarman has lauded the Khelo India University setup and believes that it will have a positive impact on the players at university and college level and help them in realising their dream of representing India at the highest level.

The inaugural edition of the Kehlo India University games is being organised by the Government of Odisha in association with Sports Authority of India (SAI), Association of Indian Universities, National Sports Federation and India Olympic Association (IOA) and participating universities.

The games will be hosted is Bhubaneswar from February 22, 2020 to March 1, 2020 and the aim of the game is unearth young talent.

"The Khelo India school games which concluded last month was a huge success and the University games will change the dynamics of the sporting setup in India. I feel there is a gap between school and college level sports. We have different types of competitions when it comes to schools but I am happy that now the athletes will have one more important tournament to participate," said the 34-year old.

Devvarman drew parallels between the University games and National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) of the United States of America.

"The NCAA has tapped talents who have represented their country at the Olympics and other international level tournaments and I believe Khelo India University games will help the Indian players in the same way but the results won't be immediate as it will take time to to nurture talent." Devvarman explained.

The Arjuna and Padma Shri awardee believes that India needs to develop a sporting culture and the games will help do just that.