Team Herald
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PANJIM: Over the past 10 years, Reliance Foundation Young Champs (RFYC) has redefined grassroots football in India with a transformative, child-centric approach. Rooted in the philosophy of “Child First, Player Second,” RFYC emphasises holistic development, nurturing not just athletes but responsible, resilient individuals.
Awarded the prestigious Elite 5-Star status by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) under its revamped Academy Accreditation Programme, the RFYC is widely regarded as India’s top football academy. Its unique curriculum seamlessly integrates top-tier football training with academics, nutrition, mental wellness and life skills education.
Located in Navi Mumbai, the RFYC’s world-class residential facility regularly hosts marquee youth tournaments like the Reliance Foundation Youth Sports (RFYS), Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) and the Premier League Next Gen Cup - offering young players’ unmatched exposure to elite competition. The academy also leads the way in using AI-powered scouting and performance analysis to identify and elevate talent.
The RFYC is one of the first to address age fraud in Indian football, being part of the pioneering Stay Your Age Cup in 2024 alongside Bengaluru FC, FC Goa, Dempo SC, FC Madras and Mizoram Football Association.
The academy’s impact is evident through its 40 alumni now thriving in the Indian Super League and I-League, including promising names - Mohammed Sanan (Jamshedpur FC), Nathan Rodrigues (Mumbai City FC), Huidrom Thoi Singh (NorthEast United FC), Alan Saji (FC Goa) - proof of RFYC’s lasting legacy in shaping Indian football’s future.
to hold football clinic at Margao
PANJIM: On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of Reliance Foundation Young Champs (RFYC), the football academy will host football clinic on June 16, at the Chowgule ground, Margao, from 3 pm.
With some of RFYC notable alumni who are currently featuring in the ISL and I-League for some of the biggest football clubs in the country would attend the clinic.
The event will involve the alumni Felixson Fernandes (Bengaluru FC) and the academy head scout Steve Charles conducting football activities with the local talents and engaging with an encouraging conversation about professional football standards.