Pune: In a new development related to Indian football, the Rajesh Wadhawan Group and Hrithik Roshan co-owned FC Pune City took over today the academy of Pune FC. Announcing the take over, the ISL franchise unveiled its comprehensive development plans and vision to develop talent and professionalize the sport. The academy runs player development program under three different age categories viz. under 18, under 17, under 15.
Claiming that Grassroots and Youth development have always been core tenets of the club, it today went on a voyage which can facilitate seamless progression for the young talent. FC Pune City further envisions upgrading and professionalising its current operations to match with international best practices. Also youth sector teams of the Pune based club shall now compete in various National and regional leagues and tournaments from this year such as PDFA local leagues, AIFF U-18 League, AIFF U-16 League & Subroto Cup.
This move will now integrate the talented kids from FC Pune City U-14 development centre with the academy, including two players recently selected by Bayern Munich from FC Pune City centre. In addition, working on gender equality aspect, FC Pune City is in process of building the Women’s team and plans to participate in the inaugural National Women’s League conducted by AIFF.
On the occasion, The CEO of FC Pune City, Gaurav Modwel said, “We are committed to developing football in a scientific and structured manner learning from international best in class practices and methodologies. our efforts to professionalize the sport and provide much needed impetus to talent identification and development will be second to none. This acquisition provides us a base to expedite the process which would have been undertaken anyway.” This furthers the club’s association with football development.
In coming days, the club will announce the Technical structure including Technical Director and Head Coach of the academy wherein they will bring in AFC licensed personnel, and Coaches with the highest UEFA licenses. Pirangut facility will be used for the training purposes and Pune FC pitches at Mamurdi and at the St Vincent’s grounds.
Speaking further about the vision of the Club Management, Mr. Modwel added that the emphasis would not be only growing the players as footballers but also on their overall personality development.
Concluding the statement related to the new project in hand, the Club’s CEO said, “In addition to top quality Coaching, the club plans to add several other programs like customised strength & conditioning programs, sports related psychological development, specialised skill based clinics, basic academic programs including communication and soft skills to develop young players as well rounded personalities without distracting them from the primary objective”