ISLAMABAD The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has started a training camp for the children of internally displaced persons (IDPs) at two refugee camps in Mardan.

Two PFF coaches will train the youth at the refugee camps of Sheikh Yasin and Sheikh Zahid.

PFF's development coordinator for the northern region, Irfan Niazi told Dawn from Mardan, 'There are around 40 children who are being trained by the federation coaches and also with the help of district football association of the city.'

Millions of people have been forced to leave their homes in the conflict-hit zones following a military operation.

He said, 'The young players are divided in different age groups and we are giving them training about the rules of the sport including basic training regarding ball control and delivery.'

Niazi added that most of the players are from the worst effected areas of Buner, Swat and Mingora.

'A referee from Mingora, Mohammad Ameen, has managed five football matches held at the Younis stadium under the aegis of PFF,' he added.

Most of the youths at the two camps, he said, were also provided with football kits.

He added, 'The PFF has also distributed fifty footballs among the young enthusiasts of the game.'

When asked to comment about the level of the players, he said, 'There are some good players but they have to come at the coaching session in the evening daily so that we can give them further training through our youth development programme.'