Naupang League Honored as Best Grassroots Football Competition by AFC

Recognition for Naupang League

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], November 5: The Reliance Foundation Young Champs (RFYC) Naupang League in Mizoram has been awarded the title of Best Grassroots Competition at the AFC Special Grassroots and Elite Youth Football Awards 2026, with the ceremony set for December 2026.

This accolade highlights the program's significant role in enhancing grassroots football through consistent player engagement, organized competitions, and investment in local football initiatives, according to a press release.

Initiated in 2022 in collaboration with the Mizoram Football Association (MFA), the Naupang League is a year-round tournament catering to children in the U8, U10, U12, and U14 categories across Aizawl, Champhai, Kolasib, and Lunglei. Over four seasons, the league has seen participation from more than 3,000 players across over 200 teams, culminating in 9,804 matches and over 450,000 minutes of football. In the fourth season held in Aizawl, 906 players from 64 teams were guaranteed at least 33 matches each, ensuring ample competitive exposure.

Building on this success, RFYC launched Mini Mizo in the 2025-26 season, expanding its grassroots football framework to younger age groups, specifically U6, U8, and U10. This initiative, delivered through schools and community centers, offers age-appropriate football experiences and serves as an early introduction to the sport.

In addition to player development, the Naupang League focuses on enhancing local football capabilities. Collaborating closely with the MFA, RFYC ensures that over 90% of matches in Aizawl are officiated by certified referees, providing local officials with valuable matchday experience. All teams in Aizawl are required to have a recognized qualified coach. In the fourth season, 16 coaches achieved the AFC C Diploma qualification, and over 350 coaches and mentors have been engaged through matchdays.

Across nine venues in four districts, RFYC supplies kits, equipment, and refreshments, along with crucial health and safety measures, including nurses and ambulances, at no cost to participants. These provisions foster a safe and supportive environment for children to play and grow.

This recognition embodies the long-term vision of the Reliance Foundation and its Founder-Chairperson, Mrs. Nita M. Ambani, to cultivate a sporting ecosystem where every child in India can participate, learn, and excel through sports.

Robert Roelofsen, Head of Youth at RFYC, stated: “At the grassroots level, the most crucial aspect is game time. The Naupang League was created with this principle in mind—small-sided games, consistent playtime for every child, and learning through participation. Many of the players developing in Mizoram today will shape the future of Indian football, and this recognition is a strong endorsement of the pathway we are establishing in Mizoram.”

“This achievement is a proud moment for Mizoram sports, showcasing our small state to the entire continent through the RFYC Naupang League. It serves as a powerful inspiration for all local athletes, regardless of their sport, to strive for excellence. We are immensely grateful to the Reliance Foundation and Chairperson Nita Ambani for initiating the Naupang League in Mizoram, and we look forward to continuing this remarkable journey together!” said Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister of State for Sports & Tourism (IC), Mizoram.

The recognition celebrates the collective efforts of young players, coaches, referees, the Mizoram Football Association, and local communities in fostering a vibrant grassroots football ecosystem. Through Naupang and Mini Mizo, the Reliance Foundation continues to fortify the foundations of the sport and create opportunities for the next generation of footballers.