The Federation of Kerala Associations in North America has unveiled a new sports committee for the 2026-2028 term, targeting deeper youth engagement across the Malayali diaspora in the United States and Canada. President Philipose Philip announced the appointments Tuesday, naming Lindo Jolly as sports director and Jines Joseph as sports coordinator. Praveen Thomas will serve as sports chairman with Vipin Raj as co-chairman.
Jolly brings decades of cricket experience. He started playing in fourth grade, later representing Kottayam district and Kerala’s under-16 and under-19 teams. After moving to America, he co-founded the Dayton Dots Cricket Club and has stayed active in tournaments and leagues across both countries. He also follows football and badminton. Joseph, meanwhile, has organized numerous cricket events in the US and helped establish the Kerala Cricket League USA. Secretary Santosh Nair and Treasurer Anto Varkey said their combined background will help roll out new programs effectively.
The committee’s agenda is ambitious. Training camps, sports academies, youth festivals, and inter-state tournaments are planned across multiple states. Joseph said the goal is to pull the next generation into FOKKANA’s mainstream through sport. They also want to scout talent, offer mentorship, and bring in well-known athletes and coaches.
Indian football legend IM Vijayan has signed on as brand ambassador for the sports wing. Jolly believes Vijayan’s stature will lend credibility and visibility to their initiatives. “Sports is not just a competition, it’s a powerful bond that connects generations,” Jolly said. The committee wants activities for all ages, from children to seniors, turning athletics into a cultural and social hub rather than just a series of matches.
President Philipose Philip emphasized that the effort goes beyond organizing games. It’s about building a pipeline where today’s young players become tomorrow’s community leaders. The committee begins work immediately.
