In 2024, SUFC achieved remarkable growth with new Academies in Kudlu and Whitefield in Bengaluru, Jamshri Complex in Solapur, and Bavdhan, Kharadi, and Undri in Pune. The Academy expanded its reach through collaborations with prominent partners, hosted major events like the Blue Cubs League, Kick For A Cause With SUFC, and the SUFC Summer Camp, and earned recognition with an AIFF Grassroots Award nomination, marking a year of significant success. Here’s a list of the key events and achievements SUFC has attained this year:
- Expanding Horizons: New Academies in Kudlu, Whitefield, Solapur, and Pune
In a bid to reach more aspiring footballers, SUFC has launched new football Academies in Kudlu and Whitefield in Bengaluru, Jamshri Complex in Solapur, and Bavdhan, Kharadi, and Undri in Pune. These new branches are designed to provide top-notch training facilities and coaching to young players across different regions. By expanding its footprint, SUFC is making football more accessible to aspiring players, helping the next generation of football stars reach their potential.
- Strategic Collaborations with Industry Leaders
This year, SUFC entered into partnerships with notable organizations such as Sprentzo and Prose Edu. These collaborations aim to improve the quality of football training, enhance educational opportunities, and promote football at the grassroots level. By working with these prestigious partners, SUFC continues to strengthen its commitment to player development and community engagement.
- Celebrating Key Football Days and Achievements
South United FC (SUFC) in Bengaluru celebrated AFC Women’s Football Day on March 2, 2024, at its Ulsoor facility, emphasizing community spirit and women’s empowerment in football. The event saw strong participation from SUFC Academy players, their families, and women from Cult. Fit-Multifit Gym, Tagda Raho, and Maverick and Farmer Coffee, all advocating for women’s health and wellness.
Additionally, SUFC’s Toddlers Programme, designed for children aged 3-5 years, was nominated for the AIFF Grassroots Award in the “Best Kindergarten Initiative” category, recognizing its success in nurturing young footballers from an early age.
- Hosting Major Football Events
This year, SUFC hosted several major events that left a significant mark on the football community. The Blue Cubs League and the free SUFC Summer Camp in Pune were successful in engaging young players in meaningful competitions and development activities. SUFC successfully hosted the Winter Camp in their Bangalore and Pune venues, creating even more opportunities for young players to develop their skills.
SUFC also celebrated AFC Grassroots Football Day, reinforcing its commitment to grassroots football and creating more opportunities for young players. In May 2024, SUFC marked AFC Grassroots Football Day with summer camps across several cities, engaging approximately 580 players. These events aim to inspire a passion for football and motivate the next generation to follow their dreams in the sport.
- Collaborations with Renowned Personalities
SUFC’s visibility grew through collaborations with high-profile figures such as Karun Nair, ScoopWhoop, and Gauri Shah. These partnerships have helped increase awareness about the Academy’s initiatives and inspired more youth to take up football.
- Corporate Engagements and League Events
SUFC strengthened its presence in the corporate sector by hosting the second edition of the SUFC Corporate Football Cup on July 6th, 2024.
The SUFC Undri League in Pune further contributed to promoting competitive football at the local level, providing young players with valuable match experience.
- Celebrating National Events and Milestones
In celebration of Independence Day, SUFC organized the Independence Day Youth Cup, bringing together young players from various backgrounds. On August 15th, 2024, young football enthusiasts gathered at the SUFC Academy in Ulsoor, Bengaluru, for the SUFC Independence Day Youth Cup 2024. The highly anticipated tournament featured exciting matches and offered numerous opportunities for players to showcase their skills and passion for the game.
The Academy also celebrated its 12-year anniversary, reflecting on its incredible journey of developing football in India. As a significant milestone, SUFC proudly reached the achievement of training over 13,000 kids, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering the love for football.
- Advanced Coaching Courses and New Initiatives
This year, SUFC hosted the AFC A Diploma Course, offering a platform for advanced coaching certification to individuals seeking to pursue coaching as a profession. The Academy also celebrated occasions such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and Futsal For All, creating more opportunities for community engagement.
- Participation in Tournaments
SUFC participated in tournaments like William Sports Management (WSM) Cup, Youth Premier League (YPL), and The Neonates Foundation of India to provide players with valuable competitive exposure. The SUFC Senior Team is currently participating in the BDFA Super Division, further enhancing its reputation in competitive football.
- Social Responsibility
SUFC launched the “Share Your Sweets” Diwali donation drive in collaboration with Anand Sweets, collecting donations for RBANM’s Educational Charities to support children from low-income families. Running from October 20th to November 3rd, 2024, the drive encouraged donations of clothes, accessories, books, and non-perishable food at collection centres. Donors received vouchers from Anand Sweets for their contributions.
In addition, SUFC hosted the second edition of “Kick For A Cause With SUFC,” a football tournament promoting the sport among underprivileged communities. The event, held at SUFC’s Ulsoor facility, saw 22 teams from 9 NGOs competing in three age groups: Under-13, Under-15, and Under-17. A total of 260 players participated, showcasing their skills.
All winners received trophies and PUMA India caps, while runners-up received PUMA sipper bottles. Emerging players received PUMA shoes and a one-year scholarship to train at the SUFC Academy.
- Future Plans
Looking ahead, SUFC is on-track to launch its first Residential Academy in Bangalore, providing a professional pathway for aspiring footballers.
2024 has been a year of immense growth and success for SUFC. With strategic expansions, impactful collaborations, and numerous football events, the Academy has not only contributed to the development of young football players but also built a strong community around the sport. As SUFC continues to grow, it is setting the foundation for even greater achievements in the years to come.
For more information about South United Football Club, you can e-mail info@sufcindia.com or call +91 82961 71556.
