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Delhi Soccer Association and Cerebral Palsy Sports Federation of India Join Forces to Empower Athletes

In a landmark moment for Indian sports, the Delhi Soccer Association (DSA) and the Cerebral Palsy Sports Federation of India (CPSFI) proudly announce their strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed today. This collaboration, spearheaded by Mr. Anuj Gupta, President of DSA, and Mr. Rajesh Tomar, President of CPSFI, marks a significant step towards promoting inclusivity and fostering excellence in Indian soccer.

Under this agreement, DSA, renowned for its expertise in football development, will extend its support to CPSFI in the operational & Development aspects of the sport. DSA’s experienced coaching staff and infrastructure will be leveraged to nurture and elevate the skills of athletes with cerebral palsy, preparing them for the national team. This partnership will not only enhance the quality of football played but also provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to excel in the sport.

Mr. Anuj Gupta expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are delighted to collaborate with CPSFI and contribute to the growth of para-football in India. DSA is committed to providing the necessary guidance and resources to empower these exceptional athletes.”

Mr. Rajesh Tomar added, “This partnership exemplifies our commitment to inclusivity and nurturing talent among those with cerebral palsy. We look forward to achieving new heights together.”

This union between DSA and CPSFI promises to pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for soccer in India, inspiring athletes of all abilities to pursue their dreams on the field.

Football Delhi Submits Bid to Host FIFA World Cup 2026/AFC Asian Cup 2027 Joint Qualifiers Match between India and Qatar

Football Delhi Submits Bid to Host FIFA World Cup 2026/AFC Asian Cup 2027 Joint Qualifiers Match between India and Qatar

Football Delhi, the governing body for football in the capital city of India, has officially submitted a bid to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to host the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 2026/AFC Asian Cup 2027 joint qualifiers match between India and Qatar. The match, which is set to take place on November 21, 2023, is a pivotal moment for Indian football and a testament to the country’s growing enthusiasm for the sport.

The bid comes as a result of Football Delhi’s commitment to advancing football infrastructure and promoting the growth of the sport at all levels. The organization envisions the hosting of such a significant match as an opportunity to showcase India’s potential as a footballing nation, foster international partnerships, and inspire the next generation of football talent.

Football Delhi’s President, Mr. Anuj Gupta, expressed his excitement about the bid, stating, “We are incredibly proud to have submitted our bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2026/AFC Asian Cup 2027 joint qualifiers match between India and Qatar. This match holds immense importance for Indian football and aligns perfectly with our vision to develop the sport in Delhi and across the nation. We believe that hosting such prestigious events will not only boost the morale of our players but also encourage more people to engage with football.”

The bid highlights Football Delhi’s commitment to creating a world-class footballing experience for players, officials, and spectators. The organization plans to leverage Delhi’s modern infrastructure, renowned hospitality, and passion for the sport to ensure that the match between India and Qatar becomes a memorable event for everyone involved.

The FIFA World Cup 2026/AFC Asian Cup 2027 joint qualifiers match on November 21, 2023, is expected to draw thousands of football fans from both nations, showcasing the global appeal of the sport and the unity it brings. Football Delhi’s bid emphasizes the city’s readiness to welcome these fans and provide them with a safe, exciting, and vibrant atmosphere.

Football Delhi’s bid to host this pivotal match reflects the organization’s determination to contribute to the growth of football in India and enhance the country’s standing on the international stage. With the AIFF’s decision forthcoming, football enthusiasts across India are eagerly awaiting the outcome and the prospect of witnessing a historic clash between India and Qatar.

HOSTING SANTOSH TROPHY

Football Delhi, with the support of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), had the privilege of hosting Group 1 of the 76th National Football Championship for Hero Santosh Trophy 2022/23. The event took place in Delhi and showcased the talent and passion for football in the capital city. The matches were held at the renowned Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and Ambedkar Stadium from 23rd to 31st December 2022.

The tournament provided an exciting platform for football enthusiasts and showcased the process of the Delhi State Team. After an unbeaten streak in five matches, the Delhi State Team emerged as the winner of Group 1, with Karnataka finishing as the runner-up. This victory was a testament to the dedication and skill of the players, as well as the hard work put in by the coaching staff and team management.

Hosting the Santosh Trophy was a matter of great pride for Football Delhi, as it offered an opportunity to promote and foster the culture of football in the capital. The event drew attention to the talent pool in Delhi and created a sense of excitement and enthusiasm among football fans in the region. It showcased the city’s ability to host national-level competitions and demonstrated its commitment to the development and growth of football.

Football Delhi is now looking forward to hosting more prestigious national events in the future, further bolstering the city’s reputation as a hub for football in India. The success of the Santosh Trophy event not only elevated the profile of football in Delhi but also inspired young players and created a positive impact on the overall football ecosystem in the capital city.

ONE OF THE BIGGEST GOLDEN LEAGUE IN THE COUNTRY

The Bunkerhill FD Golden League is undoubtedly one of the most prominent and thriving youth soccer leagues, attracting an impressive participation of 234 teams and over 1500 players. Spanning across a duration of six months, the league showcases a staggering 653 matches, creating an exhilarating atmosphere for both players and spectators alike. With ten well-equipped venues spread across the region, the league ensures convenient access for all teams and fans.

The league caters to players from various age groups, emphasizing inclusivity and growth at every level. The under-7 category features a whopping 55 teams, while the under-9 and under-11 divisions boast 75 and 80 teams respectively. These age groups provide a platform for young talents to hone their skills, instilling a love for the sport and nurturing their passion for the game.

The Bunkerhill FD Golden League is organized by several esteemed institutions, including Foot and Boot, Young Star Academy, Soccer Foundation FA, Cambridge Schools, Valor Grassroots FA, and JMB Sports. The involvement of these respected organizations ensures a well-structured and professional approach to the league, fostering healthy competition and promoting fair play among participants.

Overall, the Bunkerhill FD Golden League stands as a pinnacle of youth soccer in the region. It not only provides a platform for young players to showcase their talents but also serves as a unifying force within the community, bringing together individuals from various backgrounds to celebrate the beautiful game.

Partnership with Leicestershire and Rutland FA

We are proud of our diverse community and as the local governing body for grassroots football, we are firmly committed to equality in all areas of our work, helping to ensure that groups and individuals of all backgrounds are given the same opportunities within the game.

Building upon our achievement of the Equality Standard for Sport Foundation Level, the Leicestershire and Rutland County FA is now working to develop our Equality Action Plan; to advance equality and increase participation. Feedback from this process highlighted the need to consider how we attract people from more diverse backgrounds and how the county FA is perceived by people from more diverse backgrounds.

Football Delhi is delighted to share our innovative partnership with Leicestershire and Rutland County FA. The two organisations have partnered to develop their understanding, awareness, and approach to providing football in the best possible environment.

Some of our key aims through the partnership are:

  • To share ideas, good practices and to work collaboratively to grow opportunities in football for all.
  • To better understand different approaches to football and the culture of football, in particular for those football stakeholders and their local communities.
  • Develop their football workforce of staff, coaches, referees and volunteers to serve and develop football for their local communities in a safe environment

We are working to ensure that Equality, Diversity and Inclusion are embedded across the Association’s activities and that football is representative of our local communities. Creating a culture where people from all backgrounds feel they can become part of a CFA, leagues and clubs is pivotal in creating lasting change.

JUNIOR NFC U-17 WOMEN

The Hero Junior (U-17) Women’s National Football Championship 2022 held in Assam witnessed the Delhi State Team making a resounding impact. Despite facing formidable opponents like Bihar, the team demonstrated unwavering determination and showcased their exceptional talent, securing a commendable second-place finish in their group. Delhi’s performance was characterised by their remarkable teamwork and solid defensive prowess, which earned them victories in the remaining three matches of the group stage with an impressive aggregate score of 15-1. Although falling short of claiming the top spot, the Delhi State Team’s display of skill, resilience, and unwavering spirit garnered them well-deserved recognition and respect.

Their journey in the championship stands as a testament to the dedication and potential of women’s football in Delhi. The team’s inspiring performance serves as a motivation for young players to strive for excellence in the sport and highlights the bright future that lies ahead for women’s football in the region. Their impressive performance in the tournament will undoubtedly fuel their motivation to aim for even greater achievements in the future.

The Delhi State Team’s participation in the Hero Junior (U-17) Women’s National Football Championship 2022 showcases the talent and competitiveness within the Delhi football community. Their remarkable teamwork, defensive solidity, and impressive goal-scoring abilities reflect the hard work and dedication put in by the players and the coaching staff. Their success in the tournament is a testament to their abilities and serves as an inspiration for young players in Delhi to pursue their dreams in women’s football. As the Delhi State Team continues to develop and grow, they will undoubtedly contribute to the overall development of women’s football in the region and create opportunities for more aspiring players to showcase their skills at the national level.

NATIONAL BEACH SOCCER CHAMPIONSHIP 2022-23

The Delhi State team created history by participating in the first ever National Beach Soccer Championship and securing an impressive third-place finish. Stepping onto the sandy shores with determination and skill, the Delhi players showcased their adaptability and versatility in this exhilarating format of the game. Representing the capital city, the team displayed an exceptional level of teamwork, resilience, and tactical acumen throughout the tournament.

What set the Delhi State team apart was their ability to swiftly adapt to the fast-paced nature of beach soccer and seize scoring opportunities. The team’s success in the national championship not only serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring beach soccer players in Delhi but also highlights the city’s growing prominence in the sport.

This achievement by the Delhi State team signifies a significant milestone for beach soccer in the region. Their commendable performance has elevated the status of beach soccer and paved the way for further growth and development in this exciting variant of the game. The team’s success not only brings recognition to their efforts but also opens doors for future opportunities for beach soccer players in Delhi and across the country.

The Delhi State team’s participation and achievement in the National Beach Soccer Championship exemplify their dedication, talent, and commitment to the sport. Their journey serves as an inspiration to young players, demonstrating that with determination and skill, they can make their mark in the burgeoning world of beach soccer. The Delhi State team’s remarkable accomplishment will undoubtedly contribute to the continued growth and popularity of beach soccer in the region, while also encouraging more individuals to take up the sport and strive for excellence

FD YOUTH LEAGUE 2022-23

Football Delhi, also known as the Delhi Soccer Association, has made a significant mark in the football landscape of India by organizing the largest youth league ever held in the country. This groundbreaking initiative by the governing body has provided a remarkable platform for young footballers to exhibit their skills, compete at a high level, and nurture their passion for the sport. With the participation of over a thousand players and the involvement of 26 teams, this youth league has opened doors to a promising future for Indian football. It has given young players unprecedented opportunities to chase their dreams and excel in this dynamic field.

The sheer magnitude of this undertaking is evident as the league saw the organization of more than 260 matches held at 25 different venues across Delhi and its surrounding regions. The intense competition and camaraderie among the players were palpable throughout the tournament. Notably, Sudeva FC emerged victorious in the boys’ categories for U13, U15, and U18, remaining unbeaten in all divisions. On the other hand, Eve’s Soccer Club triumphed in the Khelo India U-17 Girl’s football league, displaying exceptional talent and determination.

The league’s matches were strategically dispersed across various locations, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration among young players from diverse backgrounds. This not only elevated the level of competition but also created an electrifying atmosphere that resonated with the passion and love for the game.

Football Delhi’s initiative has undoubtedly fueled the aspirations of young players across the country. By providing them with a platform to showcase their skills and compete against their peers, the league has ignited a newfound excitement and motivation within the youth. It has not only promoted football at the grassroots level but has also contributed to the overall growth and development of the sport in India.

As the biggest youth league in the country, this landmark event organized by Football Delhi has laid a solid foundation for the future of Indian football. It has become a shining example of how dedicated efforts, coupled with passion and teamwork, can propel the sport to new heights. With this success, Football Delhi has established itself as a catalyst for change and progress in the footballing landscape of India.Top of Form

Shri Anuj Gupta, President- Delhi Soccer Association met with Shri Wasim Aslam

Shri Anuj Gupta, President- Delhi Soccer Association met with Shri Wasim Aslam (Chairman of Jammu and Kashmir football association)
Shri Sajid yousuf Dar ( AIFF Coach Educator) in Srinagar, J&K to discuss avenues of working together to grow football in both the states.

The meeting was a great success and looking forward to the future roadmap on how Delhi Soccer Association and JKFA can work together to develop football at various levels was also discussed. We are pleased to inform you that it has been decided that JKFA, with the kind support of Delhi Soccer Association, will organize activities in different parts of the UT of Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally, exchange programs between these organizations will be initiated, which will lead to the betterment of players and clubs.

We look forward to working together to create a brighter future for football in Delhi and Jammu & Kashmir. The enthusiasm and commitment shown by all the parties involved have ensured that this collaboration will be highly successful and fruitful.

AGM Election Update

Football Delhi hosted its Annual General Meeting and Elections on 26th March 2023 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

Football Delhi’s activities from April 2022 to March 2023 were showed to all members highlighting key achievements and performances of various stakeholders.

The presentation of the annual report was followed by discussion on agenda points submitted by various clubs.

After the conclusion of the AGM, the Electoral Board announced the results of the much awaited elections.

Mr. Anuj Gupta was elected as the President of Football Delhi and Ms Ankrita Kaur Dhupia was elected as an Executive Committee Member (Woman).

 

Both candidates were elected unopposed for the their respective roles.

  • The newly unopposed elected President – Mr. Anuj Gupta has got more than 10 years of working experience in football. (From Grassroots to managing a Spanish Club) The President pledges to work together with all football Clubs/Academies/ Schools/Colleges with an aim to transform Delhi Football to its highest possible level.
  • Anuj Gupta, an ex-Modernite (2000 batch) and from being a B.Com(Hons) graduate from Sriram College of Commerce and dually qualified lawyer from England and India, also owns an I-League Club called, “Sudeva Delhi FC” along with owning a 4th Division Spanish Club called, “ CD Olimpic De Xativa”.

He is very passionate and brings with him a lot of positive energy, and honesty to the association. And he is bound to bring a lot of on ground execution in a very short time.

 

  • Anuj Gupta already owns a 200 bed residential academy for boys & girls spanning across 13 acres of land in the heart of Delhi.

He will revolutionise the football ecosystem by brining all football loving and playing community under one big roof, so that the game  grows through all measures.

 

During his presidency speech, Mr. Anuj Gupta informed the general body about his plan of action for his tenure. He placed great importance on the development of grassroots and youth football, promotion of local homegrown talent and protecting the integrity of matches through strict policies and making the association and clubs self sustainable.