In a significant boost to youth football development in India, Southampton Football Club (SFC), a Premier League (PL) powerhouse, have announced a strategic partnership with Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools (BBFS).
This collaboration aims to bring world-class coaching methodologies and expertise to India, fostering a strong foundation for the growth of the sport and enhancing grassroots coaching standards.
As part of the partnership, BBFS has become the Indian international academy partner of SFC, gaining priority access to the club’s academy performance plan. This comprehensive plan includes coaching philosophy, tactics, strategy, and curricula for age groups U6-U16, providing BBFS with invaluable insights into the latest training methods and player development practices.
Head of Football Programmes, Tom Grevatt, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to be partnering with Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools, in India. They’ve already got a great reputation for football delivery across the country, and now together, we are looking to have a real impact on the wider football development scene in India. They’re a forward-thinking company, with values and ambitions that match ours, and are equally dedicated to providing high-quality development opportunities.
“We are looking forward to working with them closely, and meeting some of their players and coaches later this week at the launch event at their home in New Delhi.”
Kishore Taid, Co-Founder and CEO of Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools, added, “Right from its inception, BBFS has been redefining the standard of football education in India. Through this partnership with SFC, we wish to further enhance the technical knowledge of our ecosystem and build a bridge for young footballers and coaches from India to the world.”
The partnership between the Saints and Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools marks a pivotal moment in the development of grassroots football in India. By combining SFC’s world-class coaching expertise with BBFS’s strong presence and understanding of the Indian football landscape, the collaboration aims to create a sustainable pathway for young Indian footballers to reach their full potential.
Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools is an initiative founded by the Indian football legend, Bhaichung Bhutia. The schools aim to popularise football in India and provide young players with the opportunity to develop their skills under the guidance of experienced coaches. With centres across various cities in India, BBFS has been instrumental in nurturing talented young footballers and contributing to the growth of Indian football.
Southampton Football Club is a professional football club based in Southampton, England. The club competes in the Premier League, the top division of English football. The club’s home ground is St Mary’s Stadium, which has a capacity of over 32,000.