Srinagar, Aug 22 (JKNS): The Reliance Foundation Youth Sports (RFYS) U19 Girls’ Football season in Kashmir concluded on a high note with Downtown Heroes FC crowned champions by dominating the field against Comrade FC.
The tournament, part of the Foundation’s Season 2024-25, brought together talented young girls from across the region in a pioneering platform for grassroots football.
Downtown Heroes FC Coach and Kashmir’s first female football coach, Nadiya Nighat, said, “This victory is a testament to our team’s hard work.
The girls have learned the true value of teamwork, discipline, and pushing their limits. The presence of Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Smt. Raksha Khadse, and Ms. Nuzhat Gul, Secretary, J&K Sports Council, was a huge motivation for both teams. Through RFYS, our players have gained invaluable exposure to game time, competitiveness, and professionalism. We can’t wait for the next season.”
Team Captain Fadilah added, “This RFYS season was unlike any other, we gave our all in every match, including the last league game. Lifting the RFYS trophy while maintaining clean sheets throughout the season makes us extremely proud. It truly reflects our dedication and hard work.”
The season featured thrilling contests and exceptional performances, highlighting Kashmir’s vast reservoir of talent and football’s rising popularity among young girls.
In addition to the Kashmir leg, RFYS 2025-26 season has kicked off last month.
Key Features of RFYS Season 8, Key football hotspots: Delhi, Punjab, Kashmir, Kochi, Malappuram, Hooghly, North 24 Parganas and Meghalaya
• Five age categories: U-7 (Boys & Girls), U-9 (Boys & Girls), U-11 (Boys & Girls), U-13 (Girls), and U-13 (Boys)
• No. of participating teams: 40 teams across the five categories
• Minimum no. of matches per team: 21
Kashmir Arrows FC defeated Kashmir Harvard by 3-1 to finish third in the league table.
Final League Match: Downtown Heroes FC defeated Comrade FC by 11-0.
Reliance Foundation, through RFYS, continues to nurture and empower young talent, giving girls and boys across India equal opportunities to play, grow, and dream big through football. (JKNS)