Academy Archives - Football Counter https://www.footballcounter.com/category/academy/ The Home of Indian Football Fri, 14 Feb 2025 05:36:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://static.footballcounter.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/15041743/cropped-footballcounter-logo2-32x32.png Academy Archives - Football Counter https://www.footballcounter.com/category/academy/ 32 32 South United FC announces Trials for their Residential Academy https://www.footballcounter.com/2025/south-united-fc-announces-trials-for-their-residential-academy/ https://www.footballcounter.com/2025/south-united-fc-announces-trials-for-their-residential-academy/#respond Fri, 14 Feb 2025 05:36:21 +0000 https://www.footballcounter.com/?p=86525 South United Football Club (SUFC) announces the upcoming trials for its new Residential Academy, which will be held at the Club’s Ulsoor facility in Bengaluru.

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South United Football Club (SUFC) announces the upcoming trials for its new Residential Academy, which will be held at the Club’s Ulsoor facility in Bengaluru.

The trials will serve as the first step in the selection of players for SUFC’s upcoming Residential Academy, which aims to provide young football players with elite training and guidance in a supportive environment. The Academy will offer a comprehensive programme that is designed to support the development of players, both on and off the field. The programme is structured to ensure that players receive exceptional value, with access to modern facilities and expert coaching, to develop players not only as footballers, but also as well-rounded individuals who will be provided with a pathway for a professional career at a competitive fee structure.

To find talented players, SUFC is holding open trials across multiple cities. The trials will be held on February 15, 2025, at the Ulsoor facility in Bengaluru, followed by trials on March 1st and 2nd at Bavdhan and Kharadi in Pune, respectively. These trials are open to boys aged 11 to 18 years who are keen to showcase their skills and secure a place in the Academy’s comprehensive development programme. All young footballers in this age group are welcome to take part in these trials.

Mr. Mohamed Rafik, CEO of South United Football Club, encouraged young footballers to participate in the trials, “We welcome all aspiring and eligible footballers to come showcase their skills and be part of an exciting journey at the SUFC Residential Academy. These trials offer young players the opportunity to train in a professional setup at a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of the city. If you have the passion and determination to take your game to the next level, we invite you to join us and take the first step towards a promising footballing career.”

To register for the SUFC Residential Academy trials, visit the SUFC website or click here.

The SUFC Residential Academy is designed to serve as a home for future footballers to bridge the gap between grassroots training and professional development. With a FIFA standard facility, world-class curriculum, position-specific analysis, and licensed coaches, the Academy will provide its resident players with an unparalleled training experience and support to help them compete in renowned tournaments.

The focus of the SUFC Residential Academy goes beyond football training. It will provide holistic development through life skills training, emotional development, and career counselling. The SUFC Residential Academy will ensure that students receive a balanced academic education alongside their athletic training, following a recognized educational curriculum. The Academy features a well-equipped campus that includes a gym, physiotherapy centre, video analysis rooms, and comfortable living spaces. The players will also have access to specific diet plans that will cater to their personal needs and development. Located on its own safe and well-equipped campus, the Academy includes spaces for football, wellness, and recreation, along with brands like PUMA India, Maverick & Farmer Coffee, Cult.Fit – MultiFit, Tagda Raho, and more to enhance the experience.

Since 2012, South United Football Club has trained more than 13,000 football players and achieved significant milestones, including participation in the 2nd Division I-League, multiple (four times) top two finishes in the BDFA Super Division and being the champions of the BDFA ‘A’ Division. SUFC also has three Elite Youth teams in the Under-13, Under-15, and Under-17 categories, along with a Senior Men’s team. The launch of the Residential Academy is a significant step in SUFC’s vision to build a sustainable football ecosystem in India, where players, coaches, and professionals can thrive and excel in the sport.

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Bengaluru FC Academy awarded 5-star rating by AIFF https://www.footballcounter.com/2024/bengaluru-fc-academy-awarded-5-star-rating-by-aiff/ https://www.footballcounter.com/2024/bengaluru-fc-academy-awarded-5-star-rating-by-aiff/#respond Thu, 14 Nov 2024 13:28:48 +0000 https://www.footballcounter.com/?p=86029 Blues Are Only Indian Football Club To Receive Maximum Rating From All India Football Federation… Bengaluru, 13th November 2024: Indian Super League team Bengaluru Football Club were awarded a five-star rating...

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Blues Are Only Indian Football Club To Receive Maximum Rating From All India Football Federation…

Bengaluru, 13th November 2024: Indian Super League team Bengaluru Football Club were awarded a five-star rating by the All India Federation, based on Phase 1 results of the AIFF Academy Accreditation for 2024-25. The academies were evaluated based on key criteria to ensure they meet AIFF’s standards for youth development and were given ratings accordingly.

“Our Youth Academy and Player Development Pathway are features of our Academy that we’re incredibly proud of, and the five-star Academy Accreditation from AIFF is another feather in our cap. This is a testament to the vision of the ownership, hard work of our coaches, technical staff, players and parents, and a recognition like this goes a long way in providing further impetus to our efforts to continue as the best Indian football talent factory in the country,” said Darren Caldeira, Blues’ Director of Football.
One of only two entities to receive a five-star rating alongside Reliance Foundation Young Champs, the Blues’ Grassroots Development Programme includes the BFC Soccer Schools, the BFC Residential Academy, the BFC B Team and the First Team. Bengaluru FC were awarded the Best Professional Academy by the AIFF in 2024, and have received the 2022-23 Best Grassroots Award and the 2023-24 Best Elite Youth Programme Award from the FSDL for their efforts in youth development.

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A Closer Look At The Rise Of India’s Top Football Academies https://www.footballcounter.com/2024/a-closer-look-at-the-rise-of-indias-top-football-academies/ https://www.footballcounter.com/2024/a-closer-look-at-the-rise-of-indias-top-football-academies/#respond Wed, 03 Jul 2024 14:39:45 +0000 https://www.footballcounter.com/?p=84663 With over 1.4 billion residents, India should be a powerhouse on the international football scene. However the sport often has to play second fiddle to cricket and other national sports...

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With over 1.4 billion residents, India should be a powerhouse on the international football scene. However the sport often has to play second fiddle to cricket and other national sports like hockey, which has held back the development of young players and the international element of competitive football for decades.

Those days are changing. More high level coaches and amateur sports enthusiasts are picking up the whistle and utilising free online, customisable timetable templates to manage and develop young players across the country at a host of academies that have been opening at an exponential rate.

Here are some of the best academies and the training systems in place that are set to elevate India as a genuine global force in the world game.

All India Football Federation (AIFF)

The AIFF is the governing body of football in India and has been since it was founded in 1937, gaining FIFA affiliation in 1948. The primary function of the AIFF is to manage association football leagues and teams along with the Indian national side, while it also manages the ISL and I-League, the premier domestic football competitions in the country.

As part of its operations, it runs a host of academies around the country including the Mumbai Regional Academy, Kolkata Regional Academy, Goa Regional Academy, Goa Elite Academy, Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools, Indian Tigers Football Academy and Kolkata Football Academy.

The AIFF’s mission is to capture young talent aged 8-25 years, and promote the sport of football. These academies develop their skills in regional areas, schools and major cities through training programs that will enable them to compete at an elite standard on the global stage.

South United Football Club

Bengaluru’s first privately-owned football club was established in 2012, with a focus on young athletes and the development of local talent to give the best junior footballers genuine pathways to the top. 

The club features a dedicated football academy with state-of-the-art training facilities that include cutting-edge fitness regimes, finely curated pitches and all the resources young footballers need to excel. With holistic training programmes and unwavering dedication to fostering player growth, SUFC is regarded as the gold standard of football academies in India.

What sets SUFC apart from other academies is a focus on creating strong young men and women, not just strong footballers. Those who are enrolled in the academy are taught the values of teamwork, resilience and discipline along with ongoing mentoring off the pitch, as well as on it.

Former Manchester City and Chelsea player and Irish international team member Terry Phelan is the sporting director at SUFC. He said the pathways being provided to young Indian players would translate to greater success on the international stage in the long run.

“We need to give them some time, things don’t happen overnight. Indian football has come a long way,” he said.

“(The) All Indian Football Federation (AIFF) has a roadmap for how to change the situation. FIFA is also working on technical centres and development centres now, so it seems to be going in the right direction.”

Making A Difference Off The Pitch

Another point of difference is the psychological readiness programs that include mental conditioning exercises, goal-setting workshops, and stress management techniques to ensure young footballers remain at their peak while under pressure, and make the right decisions in football – and in life. 

SUFC also has a community mission to provide access to their first class facilities for underprivileged children from all over India, running fundraisers and other programs to create pathways, and ensure social privilege is not the price of entry.

JSW Bengaluru FC Academy

The Bengaluru FC High-Performance Camp is held at the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), which is at the cutting edge of player training and development. It’s designed to prepare young footballers to be competitive in international competitions. 

One of the major benefits of taking part in the Bengaluru academy is undoubtedly the access players get to the IIS facilities, spread across 42 acres and featuring sports science facilities, learning centres, physiotherapy and recovery and a host of other facilities used to develop India’s Olympians.

Identified talent take part in multiple field sessions daily, attend AV sessions for leadership and team building, and learn about the value of a healthy, nutrient-rich diet to become an elite player.

Minerva Academy 

There is no doubt that cricket is India’s national sport, which makes it challenging to entice young players to take up football instead of focusing on their batting and bowling. 

Minerva Academy helps expose children to the best of both worlds as a multi-sports club that includes training facilities for both cricket and football – as well as futsal – that are often shared, so young players can train and develop their skills to become talented, well-rounded sports people.

But – the proof is in the pudding. The academy’s under-13 boys side won the world’s largest international youth football tournament, The Gothia Cup: The World Youth Cup, in 2023. There have also been a host of graduates who’ve gone on to play for the Indian national side.

Also Read: Sandhiya ready to take Myanmar head-on in their own den

Also Read: 133rd Indian Oil Durand Cup to kick-off on July 27, four cities to host the season opener of Indian football

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Conscient Sports partners with Real Madrid Foundation to ignite a new era in Indian Football https://www.footballcounter.com/2024/conscient-sports-partners-with-real-madrid-foundation-to-ignite-a-new-era-in-indian-football/ https://www.footballcounter.com/2024/conscient-sports-partners-with-real-madrid-foundation-to-ignite-a-new-era-in-indian-football/#respond Wed, 03 Jul 2024 10:26:19 +0000 https://www.footballcounter.com/?p=84647 In a significant step set to transform the future of football in India, the Real Madrid Foundation — branch of the renowned Real Madrid Club managing its football programs worldwide—has established a pioneering partnership with...

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In a significant step set to transform the future of football in India, the Real Madrid Foundation — branch of the renowned Real Madrid Club managing its football programs worldwide—has established a pioneering partnership with Conscient Sports.

This collaboration is dedicated to fostering young football at the grassroots level, combining Real Madrid Foundation and Real Madrid’s legendary football philosophy with Conscient Sports’ extensive expertise and dedication to Indian football. Conscient Sports is the exclusive partner of Real Madrid Foundation in India to develop the football program for all the country.

The training methodology of Real Madrid Foundation and Real Madrid blends the traditional football ethos with modern coaching philosophies. It offers unique experiences tailored for the young footballers and families, complementing mainstream education. This approach aims to enhance developmental goals, including leadership skills. The platform not only advances sporting abilities but also fosters high-performance individuals, inspired by Real Madrid’s. The programme’s curated experiences create an enriching environment for student growth in positive life values.

Conscient Sports stands as the beacon of football development in India. Since 2010, Conscient Sports has built a robust training infrastructure, now spanning four major cities—Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Pune, and Bengaluru—with over 30 state-of-the-art training centres and more than 4,000 active young footballers. Creating an environment where talent thrives by blending global best practices with a deep understanding of local football dynamics, Conscient Sports’ football wing, Conscient Football, has grown into India’s largest football academy over the past 14 years, coaching more than 50,000 players across over 40 locations. This journey includes conducting over 50 nationwide camps and selecting more than 25 teams for international football tournaments. Beyond football skills, Conscient Sports fosters a youth movement, emphasizing health & wellness, focus & discipline, teamwork & leadership, and character-building through the sport. Partnering with Real Madrid Foundation, Conscient Sports continues its commitment and legacy towards the sport.

“Real Madrid’s legacy of excellence finds a perfect partner in Conscient Sports, whose unparalleled expertise and dedication to grassroots development in India are second to none,” said Emilio Butragueno, Legend, Director – Real Madrid Institutional Relations and Official Spokesperson.  He further added“Conscient Sports’ extensive knowledge of the Indian football landscape and their relentless pursuit of excellence make them the ideal ally for our mission. There is no better partner in India to help us realize our vision of nurturing young football talent.”

Kriti Jain Gupta, Director of Conscient Sports, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership: “Over the last 14 years, football has evolved dramatically, with new emphasis on physicality, speed, tactical flexibility, and high-intensity pressing. Our young athletes need training that aligns with these advancements and prepares them for the future. Conscient Sports has continually adapted coaching philosophies to meet the evolving needs of players and their families. And this is in sync with the philosophy of the club. Our goal is to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring our athletes are not only prepared for global challenges but also inspired to excel. We are dedicated to driving the growth of football in India, aspiring to host championships and tournaments that will shine a spotlight on our homegrown talent.”

The exclusive partnership with Real Madrid Foundation is more than just a new badge; it is about leveraging thought leadership to impact sustainability & community development, to promote inclusive practices and the vision emphasises the role of sports in fostering education, health, sustainable development and social integration, leveraging influence to create positive, lasting impacts on society that go beyond sports, embracing the true essence of football, and celebrating the diverse styles, techniques, and approaches that make the sport so aspirational.

In the past 14 years, Conscient Sports has won the trust of thousands of players who have believed, thrived, and have turned out to be wonderful human beings. Countless tournaments, effective and structured training sessions, humble coaches and supervisors, high-quality infrastructure, online training sessions during COVID, physiotherapists, CPR & First Aid trained coaches at every session—Conscient Sports has always stayed ahead of the curve.

This historic collaboration between Real Madrid Foundation and Conscient Sports promises to usher in an era of exciting new beginnings, shaping the future of football in India. Together, they will cultivate a new generation of football stars, the club’s legacy with Conscient Sports’ unmatched dedication to the sport. This partnership heralds a vibrant and competitive football landscape, positioning India on the global football map.

Also Read: Clifford Miranda and Denis Kavan join Mumbai City’s coaching staff

Also Read: Millat FC, Delhi FC, Electric Veng and Thyristor setup quarter-final clash

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Mumbai 42 Football Academy to conduct trials for Youth players https://www.footballcounter.com/2024/mumbai-42-football-academy-to-conduct-trials-for-youth-players/ https://www.footballcounter.com/2024/mumbai-42-football-academy-to-conduct-trials-for-youth-players/#respond Thu, 30 May 2024 11:55:18 +0000 https://www.footballcounter.com/?p=84291 Newly established Mumbai 42 Football Academy will be conducting trials for young footballers in the upcoming week.

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Newly established Mumbai 42 Football Academy will be conducting trials for young footballers in the upcoming week.

The academy aims to focus on grassroots development stating ‘We will not just teach players how to play football but also teach them human values to be a great human being.’

Trials Date: June 7th, Friday

Trials fees: 100 Rs.

Reporting Time: 2:20 PM

Venue: Dribble, Powai

Age Group: 2007 and 2011 (U15, U18)

For any further information contact us on instagram @mumbai_42_football_academy or email [email protected]

Also read: Sreebhumi FC, Nita Football Academy earn promotion to IWL

Also read: Indebted to the sport, my team, says Chhetri as Blue Tigers arrive in Kolkata

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South United FC expands its horizons: Touching down in Pune with 3 new academies https://www.footballcounter.com/2024/south-united-football-club-expands-its-horizons-touching-down-in-pune-with-three-new-academies/ https://www.footballcounter.com/2024/south-united-football-club-expands-its-horizons-touching-down-in-pune-with-three-new-academies/#respond Wed, 14 Feb 2024 12:06:18 +0000 https://www.footballcounter.com/?p=83061 South United FC, Bengaluru’s first privately-owned Professional Football Club, has announced the expansion of its Academy to Pune, aiming to unlock and nurture the full potential of football in Pune. SUFC’s esteemed...

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South United FC, Bengaluru’s first privately-owned Professional Football Club, has announced the expansion of its Academy to Pune, aiming to unlock and nurture the full potential of football in Pune.

SUFC’s esteemed Academy, South United Football Academy (SUFA), has recently inaugurated three cutting-edge training hubs in Pune located in Bavdhan, Kharadi, and Undri, respectively.

SUFA’s vision in Pune unfolds as a progressive pathway, welcoming children right from the age of 3 years onwards to embark on their footballing journey. South United will run three programs at their training centres in the city, which will include their unique Toddler Development Program (3-5 Years), their flagship Youth Development Program (5-18 years), and their Elite Youth Teams (Under 13, Under 15, and Under 17) where talented athletes are provided a full scholarship from the Club, thereby opening a pathway to the Senior Team. 

The Academy will conduct trials for the Elite program in the Under 13, Under 15 and Under 17 age group categories at the Bavdhan centre in the coming days to select upcoming talent and incorporate them into the program.

Following the successful implementation in Bengaluru, South United strives to replicate this dynamic pathway in Pune. This was revealed at a media outreach event held by the Club today at their sprawling state-of-the-art Ganga Legends Sports Complex Academy in Bavdhan. 

SUFA aims to provide a supportive environment to implement international coaching standards, enhance the existing infrastructure, and contribute to the overall footballing ecosystem to prioritize the development of football prodigies locally.

The SUFC leadership team, including Mr. Sharan Parikh, Director, SUFC, Mr. Terence (Terry) Phelan, Sporting Director, South United Sports Foundation, and Mr. Sachin Badadhe, Head Coach, SUFC, were present at the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Parikh said, “South United is part of a larger vision, which involves creating three fundamental pillars – culture, infrastructure, and a self-sustainable ecosystem. Our ecosystem comprises of the Football Club, the Academy, Sports Events, Sports Infrastructure, Sports Education, and the Sports Foundation. We aspire to be a case study for other football clubs in the country that also have the same purpose.

Mr. Parikh elaborated on the commitment of the Club to Pune by adding, “The heart of South United’s commitment to youth development lies in its academies. Here, young athletes are not only honed into skilled football players but are also taught indispensable values. Our primary motive is to build good human beings first. Since not everyone can become a professional footballer, it is all the more important that every child or individual entering any of our programs is able to experience holistic development just as a parent would want; we are their parents away from home.

Every city is unique, and Pune is as distinctive as it gets, even within Maharashtra. We respect this uniqueness and have tailor-made our approach and programs to cater to Pune youth. We want to work alongside the clubs and academies that exist in Pune to help each other grow and take the sport to new heights. We want to support one another, pull each other up, and succeed together. In that spirit of collaboration and cooperation, we can build a long-lasting, strong foundation for football in Pune!”

Mr. Terence (Terry) Phelan, Sporting Director of South United Sports Foundation also expressed excitement at being in the city saying, “Bengaluru and Pune are similar in many ways. Bengaluru has now developed a structured footballing ecosystem focusing on grassroots development. Not every grassroots player makes it to the top level but every top level player starts at the grassroots level. We have been flourishing in that environment and look forward to contributing to the growth of football in Pune. We believe Pune has a rich talent pool, passion for the game, and the required infrastructure for the sport to grow.” 

Mr. Phelan also shared about opening a football hub in the neighbouring city of Solapur. He further revealed that the blueprint of a Baby League in the city has also been formalized, and preparations would begin soon.

The session began with a short film on the journey of SUFC, now in its 12th successful year, and concluded with an engaging penalty shoot-out challenge for the media personnel present. 

SUFA has partnered with Pune-based Ileseum Clubs for their centres in Bavdhan, Undri, and Kharadi. The centres in Bavdhan and Kharadi have an 11-a-side pitch, while Undri has a 7-a-side pitch. SUFA will also run their Elite Programme, which will provide scholarships to selected talent from the city starting June in Bavdhan and Kharadi.

Also Read: ISL Matchweek 15: Report (EBFC v MCFC): Mumbai City FC edges past East Bengal FC with a narrow 1-0 win

Also Read: Mumbai Super League: Soccer Saga hold SG5 to 1-1 draw

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Soccer Schools of Excellence (SSE) seeks Licensed Coaches https://www.footballcounter.com/2023/soccer-schools-of-excellence-sse-seeks-licensed-coaches/ https://www.footballcounter.com/2023/soccer-schools-of-excellence-sse-seeks-licensed-coaches/#respond Tue, 10 Oct 2023 10:28:27 +0000 https://www.footballcounter.com/?p=81318 Soccer Schools of Excellence (SSE), a premier AIFF accredited academy, is on the lookout for passionate and licensed football coaches to join their dynamic team. With a legacy dating back...

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Soccer Schools of Excellence (SSE), a premier AIFF accredited academy, is on the lookout for passionate and licensed football coaches to join their dynamic team.

With a legacy dating back to 2009, SSE has been a cornerstone in nurturing football talent in Mumbai. Founded with a vision to provide top-notch football training, SSE has grown into a footballing hub, catering to over 1000 children across 30+ locations in Mumbai. The academy boasts a team of 30+ licensed coaches committed to imparting quality football education.

What SSE Offers:

1. Grassroot Exposure: SSE provides a solid foundation in grassroots football, ensuring players are well-versed in the fundamental skills.

2. Match Experience: The academy emphasizes practical learning through friendly and competitive matches by participating in MFA Youth leagues, offering a holistic football experience.

3. Licensed Coaching: With a team of licensed coaches, SSE adheres to a structured and age-specific curriculum, ensuring that players progress systematically.

The Opportunity:

SSE is inviting licensed football coaches to be part of this exciting journey. The focus is on training youth players aged between 3-14 years, encompassing both boys and girls. The minimum requirement is a D License, and passionate individuals with higher accreditations are encouraged to apply.

Contact Information:

For those ready to make an impact in the development of young talents, Mr. Stanislaus can be reached at 8928491152.

Join SSE and be a Driving Force in Football Development!

If you are a licensed coach with a zeal for shaping the future of football, SSE welcomes you to contribute to the growth and success of budding players. Take the leap, share your expertise, and become an integral part of SSE’s footballing legacy. Your coaching journey starts here!

Also Read: Mumbai City FC make a happy homecoming with 2-1 win over Kerala Blasters FC

Also Read: AFC Futsal Asian Cup Qualifiers: India lose to experienced Tajikistan despite David Laltlansanga hattrick

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Bharat Football Academy launched in Bangalore https://www.footballcounter.com/2022/bharat-football-academy-launched-in-bangalore/ https://www.footballcounter.com/2022/bharat-football-academy-launched-in-bangalore/#respond Mon, 14 Nov 2022 16:39:03 +0000 https://www.footballcounter.com/?p=76207 Former Mumbai footballer Jigs Solanki who has just shifted base to Bangalore for work has started a new football academy in the city aiming to provide football exposure at the...

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Former Mumbai footballer Jigs Solanki who has just shifted base to Bangalore for work has started a new football academy in the city aiming to provide football exposure at the grassroots level.

Mumbai lad Jigs Solanki, who has played football in various state and national level football competitions over the years has now moved out of the city to work in Bangalore. Aiming to fulfill his father’s wish of starting a football academy for kids, Jigs has now taken the first step with the launch of Bharat Football Academy

Excerpts from the Interview:

Did the Idea of starting a Football Academy occur back in your days as a footballer?

I started my Career in football at the age of 7 with the help of my dad, because he was also a footballer. After that, I played Inter-school level, State level, National level, and in Mumbai Super Division Etc. Then I thought I would also start one day my own academy.

Being a Maharashtrian, why did you choose Bengaluru to establish the academy?

Yes nice question, when I relocated to Bangalore for a job, I observed that here, there are not enough platforms for grassroots football. I know how much training at an early age is important for a professional career in sports so I went about starting an academy in Bangalore itself.

What were the biggest hurdles you faced leading up to the launch of the academy?

Well for me, there are lots, I am new in this state so when I came here I was not exactly aware of this place. The biggest challenge for me in this new city is convincing the parents to get their kids into the academy, etc

What, in your opinion, makes football a great sport for children?

Playing football helps improve your child’s fine motor skills, balance, flexibility, and spatiality as he plays. The best play requires teamwork and coordination, all of which are skills children learn by playing football. The game makes them better and football is a sport anyone can play, all they need is someone to show them the proper track.

How do you evaluate success as an owner of Bharat Football Academy?

Success never ends, I just started. The main thing is my dad’s dream that was supposed to start one academy and train those players who have talent but they don’t have scope or platform. So I am fulfilling my dad’s dream. Not only coaching, but I also have big plans for this academy going forward. I want this academy to become India’s best academy. I want my team to represent in the ISL, I-league in the future.

Also Read: Mumbai feels like home now: Bipin Singh

Also Read: Could India Ever Host the World Cup?

For more trial-related updates click: Latest trials updates in Mumbai Football

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South United FC Launches Its World-Class Football Academy in the Heart of Bengaluru! https://www.footballcounter.com/2022/south-united-fc-launches-its-world-class-football-academy-in-the-heart-of-bengaluru/ https://www.footballcounter.com/2022/south-united-fc-launches-its-world-class-football-academy-in-the-heart-of-bengaluru/#respond Sat, 18 Jun 2022 04:56:00 +0000 https://www.footballcounter.com/?p=71260 Bengaluru-based South United Football Club (SUFC) unveiled its Football Academy in Bengaluru today.

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Bengaluru-based South United Football Club (SUFC) unveiled its Football Academy in Bengaluru today.

Bengaluru, June 16th: Located in the heart of Bengaluru, the South United Football Academy is poised to be one of the best football academies in the country. The Academy caters to players right from the age of three onwards. It has three Elite Youth Teams in the Under-13, Under-15, and Under-18 categories, which will also compete in the I-League. Through the Academy, South United looks to churn out national-level talent and contribute to the future of Indian Football. 

South United also believes that one of the main purposes of the SUFC Academy is to create a more integrated community for football in Bengaluru. This place is beyond just an Academy – it is a culture that must be built along with the people around it.

SUFC – Redefining What a Football Academy Is!

The Academy aims at identifying, developing, and retaining talented young footballers while providing them with the right learning environment for growth. South United takes equal responsibility in the upbringing of its players and wants to develop sharp minds through its footballing programme. It believes in creating an atmosphere that caters to discipline, the right attitude, and a professional approach – both on and off the field.

This Football Academy has state-of-the-art infrastructure that includes all-weather 11-a-side, 6-a-side, and 3-a-side turfs, all within the same facility. It also has a Gym, a Medical Room, an AV Room, a Running Track, a Sandpit, Dressing Rooms and Lockers, an Ice Bath, a Steam Bath, a Café, and several other sports facilities that players can avail of. The Academy also has an experienced team of licensed and professional coaches who provide age-specific training to the players. Players will also have access to Sports Psychologists, Sports Physiotherapists, and Sports Nutritionists who are dedicated to the growth of every athlete who joins the Academy.

From Left: Pranav Trehan – CEO SUFC, N.A Haris (President, Karnataka State Football Association, also an MLA), Sharan Parikh – Director SUFC, and Mr. Satyanarayanan – Gen Secretary, KSFA

Building a Complete Pathway for Athletes

At the SUFC Academy, players will be able to grow from the Junior Development Programme to the Youth Development Programme to the Elite Development Programme. The Academy players can then try out for SUFC’s Elite Youth Teams and even SUFC’s Main Team.

The Football Academy will be a platform for big clubs to scout talented footballers. It will be a place where players can get selected for the National squad or picked up by top ISL and I-League teams. The Academy aims to be one of the finest talent-building academies in the country.

The South United Academy is also constantly expanding its connections within and outside the country. The product, the infrastructure, and the team are what set the Academy apart. Through its vast network and strategic partnerships, South United is creating an academy model that will flourish in the country.

For Trial related updates: Latest trials updates in Mumbai Football

Also Read: Central Railway script dramatic late comeback to edge ESIC 5-3

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Banswara based Islands United Football Club aims towards Building a sustainable model for smaller teams https://www.footballcounter.com/2021/building-a-sustainable-model-for-smaller-teams-aims-banswara-based-islands-united-football-club/ https://www.footballcounter.com/2021/building-a-sustainable-model-for-smaller-teams-aims-banswara-based-islands-united-football-club/#respond Thu, 16 Sep 2021 05:54:27 +0000 http://www.footballcounter.com/?p=65340 A club based out of one of the most underprivileged and underdeveloped districts of the country – Banswara, where there is not even a Railway station is dreaming big to...

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A club based out of one of the most underprivileged and underdeveloped districts of the country – Banswara, where there is not even a Railway station is dreaming big to enter the Indian Football ecosystem through unique measures of crowdfunding.

Islands United Football Club recently participated in the Rajasthan State Men’s League, fourth division of Indian football system. Run by some of the meritorious graduates of foreign universities, these football passionates are discovering new ways to make football clubs business sustainable in India.

After 8 years of patience and perseverance, Islands United Football Club got an opportunity to play the Fourth Division of Indian Football System, the Rajasthan State Men’s League A Division 2021 (R League) last month. It was fascinating to know that only 8 clubs fulfilled the criteria set by the Rajasthan Football Association out of which 5 clubs were based in Jaipur (the capital of Rajasthan). IUFC was among the 3 non-Jaipur based football clubs along with Vedanta Group’s multimillion dollar CSR project, Zinc Academy based in Udaipur and defending champions, JECRC FC (rebranded to Rajasthan United Football Club) based in Bhilwara. Hailing from Banswara, one of the most underprivileged districts of Rajasthan and competing against the clubs with immense resources and greater pool of talented players, their campaign was destined to face challenges both on and off the field. Yet, the players believed everything is going to be all right. Below is how the club encountered both the challenges.

Challenge #1 – Funding the campaign

The initial estimation for the total budget of the entire campaign was INR 300,000 (including added expenses due to bio bubble venue). It looked impossible to arrange sponsors in such a short time. Hence, the management staff and players themselves decided to contribute according to their spending capacities to fulfil their dreams of playing an AIFF official league. There was a psychological aspect involved in this strategy as well. As players contributed, they were even more motivated to perform and play better. Secondly, the club started a crowdfunding campaign. In a span of just 10 days, they accumulated almost INR 60,000 from 36 supporters based throughout India and abroad. Thirdly, kind gesture from drkamlesh.com to become their sleeves sponsor provided just enough thrust to ensure the participation.

Challenge #2 – Fielding a competitive squad

Due to COVID and last-minute injuries to the major players, IUFC were forced to recruit some players to field a competitive squad for the league. Giving priority to the future of Indian football and footballers in India, the management team decided to sign young (under 20) players who prefer experience and exposure over extravagant salaries. Another reason to select youngsters was that they are relatively easy to manage and always eager to learn new things. In a condensed time, the club launched a recruitment drive and asked interested players to fill up a Google form. Their marketing campaign accompanied with support from major football related social media platforms like sportik, IFTWC and footballcounter, they were able to generate a database of over 1000 players. Then they shortlisted players based on their playing positions, experience, and availability. Shortlisted players were recruited based on scout reports and open trials.

Competition results

All the matches of the league were telecasted live with commentary on the official YouTube and Facebook channels of Sportscast India. The team performed exceptionally in 5 matches out of total 7. In the opening fixture, they took a 1-0 lead in the first half against a team that was playing a division higher last season, Rajasthan Perfect FC (formally called as AU Rajasthan FC). However, IUFC lost the match 2-1 with a debatable penalty decision by the referee in the last two minutes of the match. In the third match lost 1-0 to Neerja Modi FA, former champions of The Amateur League (TAL). In their fifth game against Zinc Academy, the team played a very disciplined and competitive game, yet succumbed to 2-1 loss against the eventual champions. The last game was against Royal FC, a team comprising the best players of the state (including some Santosh Trophy players). The boys of Islands United Football Club played the game of their lives to defeat Royal FC 1-0 and hence concluding the club’s maiden R-League A division campaign with our maiden victory in the Fourth division of Indian Football System. Though they finished at the bottom of the league with 4 points in 7 matches, they ended the campaign with a commitment that Islands United Football Club will be back next season stronger and better.

Appreciation and success on social media

“It’s good to see the two teams playing the ball on the ground, trying to play the ball between the lines. That is the kind of football we want to see as football purists.”,

comments Joel on the first game of the campaign.

The gameplay of Islands United FC received great appreciation by the commentator, fans, Rajasthan Football Association, and fellow football clubs. Mainly playing in a low block 5-4-1 formation, the team enjoyed less possession but was lethal in counterattack and set pieces. “We wanted to keep matches competitive through defensive discipline, unity in the team and unparallel work rate by the players” said Founder and Manager, Shrey Upadhyay.

The club’s social media received massive traction in the last 30 days (4 July-4 Aug 2021).

41.4% increase in followers
355% increase in accounts reached (total 7,164 accounts reached)
1,650% increase in story interactions
944% increase in content interactions (total 5,703 content interactions)
924% increase in post interactions (total 5,367 post interactions)
1778 YouTube views
15.35% increase in YouTube Subscribers (total 118 new subscribers)

Despite all the success, the club is still short of the INR 300,000, the amount required to reach break even point for the club’s R League 2021 campaign. If you like what IUFC are doing and want to contribute below are the details.

UPI – islandsuntiedfc@okhdfcbank

Gpay – 7737988777

For bank transfers, payment using credit/debit cards and international payments, feel free to DM IUFC on their social media channels. Alternatively, email at[email protected]

You can also buy the club’s official merchandise and help them financially. To get the product catalogue and pricelists at your emails, please email at- [email protected] or visit their social media @islandsunitedfc

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

Twitter

Links to their R-League matches are as follows-

Islands United FC vs Rajasthan Perfect FC

Islands United FC vs Jaipur Elite FC

Islands United FC vs Neerja Modi FA

Islands United FC vs Brothers United FC

Islands United FC vs Zinc Academy

Islands United FC vs Rajasthan Untied FC

Islands United FC vs Royal FC

IUFC’s core committee (graduates from foreign universities

Shrey Upadhyay (Founder)

Parth Upadhyay (Head of Finance)

Vansh Srivastava (Head of Media and Marketing)

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