NEW DELHI: In an effort to encourage more people to play the beautiful game, Football Delhi will launch a league for non-affiliated teams this season.
With this initiative, the state federation hopes to develop an inclusive structure in the National Capital Region that will significantly contribute to the growth and development of the sport in the NCR.
A new C Division will be launched for these non-league teams and any interested teams can apply to be a part of it. Winners of C-Division will have the opportunity to qualify for B Division League if the team is able to fulfill the eligibility criteria.
It is expected that 20-22 teams will be a part of C Division and it will boost football development as the teams will be able to play in an official competition.
“With the rising popularity of the sport, we had to come up with a plan that will give these budding talents a platform to perform and encourage them to give wings to their passion,” said Shaji Prabhakaran, president of Football Delhi.
“In a first of its kind, the C Division will bring in amateur footballers to show their talent in a league format and get the feel of playing in a proper competition.
“With this, not only are we looking to build a strong and healthy, football-loving nation, but this attempt might even unearth some promising talent who can contribute to Indian football’s rise in the future,” he added.
A detailed regulations covering all aspects of non-league teams participation will be announced by 15th September 2019.
Besides, the Football Delhi executive committee also decided to approve the participation of Delhi Police and CISF Football Teams in B Division League from this season.
This year four teams will also get the opportunity to be promoted to A Division from B Division League whose upcoming season starts from 27th September.
