Redefining Mumbai Football: The unique approach of India On Track FC

by Anas Mujawar April 30, 2024

In a football landscape where clubs often prioritize short-term success over long-term sustainability, India On Track FC (IOT FC) stands out as a beacon of dedication, unity, and unwavering commitment to its players and community.

As the curtains close on another exhilarating season, we delve into the remarkable journey of IOT FC and the values that define its ethos.

Taking Professionalism to grassroots

Unlike many other clubs in the Mumbai football scene, IOT FC operates on a distinctive principle – treating its players not just as athletes, but as integral members of a tight-knit family. While most clubs in the Mumbai Super League have their own constraints in terms of how they are run, IOT FC distinguishes itself as one of the few clubs providing professional contracts, wages, and accommodation for its outstation players, fostering an environment of trust, camaraderie, and mutual respect.

IOT Chairman, Mr. Gaurav Modwel, speaking about the team said, ”All kudos to the team, I still remember 13th of July last year we got promoted to MFA Super Division, and the very next month August the matches were scheduled to start. It was Monsoon and we didn’t have the time to make a team. But then one by one everyone came along and made an excellent team. Absolute Champions mentality and I am proud of each one of them.”

In football, players often move or change clubs during the transfers – some get better opportunity, some get replaced for higher quality. A fact that Mr. Modwel reiterated too however like one doesn’t leave their family behind, Mr. Modwel wasn’t going to either, “I am Proud of each one of you, next season, some of you would be there some may not but I will be there by your side whenever you need me.”

Forward Amrendra Singh, “I joined late. I joined in the playoffs but how quickly the team accepted me and made me the part of family I loved it. I may not continue football after this year but the vibe the team gave me I would like to end it on this high.”

Skipper Bilal Modak, speaking to the team, gave a special thanks to teammates, “Bit disappointed but nevertheless we did well to gain promotion. I am really happy that my teammates made me a good captain. When I was unavailable, my vice captains Rohan D’souza and Saurabh Nikam did the job.” The family environment was quite evident when the acknowledgement for his teammate brought out a prompt response from the team as one of them stated, “Not just through words but his actions is what made him our captain”

While on the field it was players who stood up with their performances and deservingly got the praise, Head Coach Yash Shah pointed out to the management’s dedication too. “You have to give credit to them, they took care of everything. Right from making the grounds available for us for training 3 times a week to taking care of outstation players’ accommodations and everything, even salaries. The league was stretching out and out (Due to constant rescheduling) but they continued their support consistently.”

Yash also singled out special mentions to his coaching staff as well as backroom staff, “I am thankful to my coaching staff, Vismay, Agnel and also Miguel for his technical support and expertise. Sometimes I have been rude or demanding but they stuck with me and believed in me. Akhil, Deepayan and others who are part of our support team have all been very supportive. I thank Gaurav sir because of him everything is running so smoothly and I got this Opportunity.”

The way IOT FC has played this season and for that matter the last 4 years where they have gone on to earn promotion each year, it was quite obvious that they would become the talk of the town. Alongside Mumbai City FC colts, India On Track were the only other side to go throughout the Mumbai Super League campaign without suffering a single loss. As IOT FC continued to carve its path towards success, the impact of its efforts extended beyond the confines of the football pitch. Through grassroots initiatives and partnerships with organizations like LALIGA Academy Schools, IOT FC is nurturing the next generation of footballing talent while instilling a culture of winning and excellence.
A Night of Camaraderie: Stories Shared and Memories Made

As the sun set on another successful season, the celebrations continued at India On Track FC with a post-season party that epitomized the spirit of camaraderie, unity, and achievement. Against the backdrop of jubilant cheers and heartfelt applause, players and coaching staff alike were honoured with tokens of appreciation for their unwavering dedication and commitment throughout the season.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of commemorative scarves, medals, and personalized photo frames, each symbolizing the collective triumphs and shared memories of the season. For many, these mementos served as tangible reminders of the hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance that had led them to this momentous occasion.

Amidst the festivities, the club took a moment to reflect on its remarkable journey from the depths of the MFA 3rd Division to the pinnacle of the Mumbai Premier League – a feat achieved through four promotions in as many seasons. It was a testament to the resilience, determination, and unwavering belief that had become synonymous with India On Track FC.

As players shared anecdotes, exchanged words of admiration, and bid farewell to departing teammates, the sense of camaraderie and unity that defined the club’s culture was palpable. From the seasoned veterans to the rising stars, each member of the squad played an integral role in the club’s success, embodying the values of teamwork, perseverance, and mutual support.

The post-season party was more than just a celebration of achievements; it was a testament to the enduring bond that united the India On Track FC family

What’s for the future

Looking ahead, IOT Chairman Gaurav Modwel envisions a future where IOT FC expands its footprint across the country, establishing a network of clubs that share the same values. “The main reason for IOT FC coming out as a club is to teach the academy – the fun of winning, IOT FC has been winning everything, our training programs have produced players like Kajol D’Souza and Jay Gupta (Both receiving India call up). That winning habit has now spread across. Now I get calls from people asking for IOT in Pune, Cochin.” mentions Gaurav. With ambitious plans to establish IOT FC in multiple cities within the next 3-5 years, Mr. Modwel’s vision underscores the club’s commitment to long-term growth and sustainability.

Despite the considerable achievements thus far, IOT FC faces formidable challenges ahead as it transitions to the competitive landscape of the Mumbai Premier League. The heightened level of competition will test the club’s mettle, both on and off the field. In an industry often defined by transient success, IOT FC stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication, unity, and a relentless commitment to excellence.

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