Rurka Kalan's Football Revolution: Anwar Ali Inspires Youth Away from Drugs

A Sporting Movement in Rurka Kalan

In the face of challenges like drug abuse and unemployment, a remarkable sporting initiative is emerging in Rurka Kalan, Adampur, Jalandhar. Here, young individuals are so engrossed in football that they have little time for drugs or social media distractions.

Anwar Ali: From Player to Coach

Leading this movement is Anwar Ali, a celebrated footballer with a 20-year career, including 35 caps for the Indian national team. After achieving great success, he has returned to his hometown and the Youth Football Club Rurka Kalan (YFC) to cultivate local talent.

The Legacy of YFC

Established in 2001 by Gurmangal Das Soni, YFC has been instrumental in nurturing numerous athletes, including both national and international football stars. Anwar Ali himself is a proud alumnus of this club.

Preparing for Global Competitions

Under Ali's guidance as head coach, a team of ten boys is set to represent India at the upcoming Street Child World Cup 2026 in Mexico City, coinciding with the FIFA World Cup 2026 hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

A Journey Through Football

Throughout his extensive career, Ali has had the privilege of training alongside football legends such as Roberto Carlos and Alessandro Del Piero. His experiences have shaped his coaching philosophy.

Commitment to Grassroots Development

Reflecting on his return to YFC, Ali expressed, “I joined YFC two years ago after a long professional career. I wanted to give back to the place where I began. We already had a foundation for nurturing young talent, and I believe in developing players from a young age.”

YFC's Growth and Infrastructure

Ali noted the academy's rich history and the ongoing efforts to enhance its facilities. He stated, “YFC has been operational for 25 years and continues to thrive. I've seen various infrastructures across states, and YFC stands out as one of India's premier grassroots academies.”

Focus on Nutrition and Training

Students at YFC benefit from a well-rounded diet and training regimen. Ali emphasized, “While every academy has its strengths, we prioritize nutrition and training. The support from management allows us to provide world-class facilities for our players.”

Success Stories from YFC

YFC has successfully sent 15 to 20 players to national teams across various age categories, with some even representing India at the senior level.