Entally Hockey Academy has been organising an age-group tournament for last 17 years but this year, due to the pandemic, they were in two minds.

In the end, keeping in mind the interest of the local players, it went ahead with its annual four-day tournament at the academy ground from Thursday.

“Our five-a side all-India age group tournament is very popular in the hockey circuit. This year it’s only a Bengal affair due to the pandemic. Eight teams each are participating in the boys’ under-14, under-17 and women’s category,” Subir Pan, secretary of the academy, said on Friday. The finals are slated for Sunday.

“Every year academy teams from various parts of the country take part in our tournament. This meet gives exposure to the young players of our state. Even though outstation teams are not playing, they are in constant touch with us. They have only one request. If any talented player catches our eye, we have to recommend his or her name to them.”

With an aim to nurture young talents, the academy was started in 1997. Presently, 60 players train at the academy. Players from the academy have also represented the state and junior national teams.

“Players mainly from economically challenged background come to our academy. We not only help the players but also try to support their families. During lockdown we reached out to 2000 people and organised blood donation camps too,” Pan said.