Udaipur : Hindustan Zinc’s (NSE: HINDZINC) Zinc Football Academy, which has been at the forefront of nurturing footballing talent for India, successfully organised the second season of the AIFF Zinc Blue Cubs League. The three-month long league, which kicked off in November, concluded with great enthusiasm, marking another significant stride in grassroots football development. The closing ceremony was attended by Harbans Thakur, Principal, DAV HZL School, Zawar Mines; Tarun Roy, Head Coach, Zinc Football Academy; Aakash Narula, CEO, Vedanta Zinc Football and Sports Foundation.
AIFF Zinc Blue Cubs League saw a participation of 152 budding footballers from our local communities across three age categories: Under-8, Under-10, and Under-12. Organised by Hindustan Zinc flagship CSR initiative Zinc Football, the league reflects our commitment to nurturing young talent and empowering communities through the most loved sport in the world. The initiative provided a platform for aspiring children, both boys and girls, to showcase their skills while also fostering leadership, confidence, and community spirit. Across the three categories, players engaged in over 200 competitive matches.
After three months of thrilling matches filled with passion, fierce tackles, and outstanding goals, the second season of the league culminated last month. The event was not just a tournament but a launchpad for young dreams, igniting a lifelong love for football and providing pathways for professional growth. Adding to the excitement, standout players from the Under-12 category will be scouted for next year’s Zinc Football Academy Under-13 team, further strengthening the academy’s talent pipeline.
Speaking about the initiative, Ram Murari, IBU CEO – Zawar Group of Mines, Hindustan Zinc added, “At Zinc Football, our mission is to empower the youth in our community by providing access to professional sports training and mentorship. We believe that sports is a powerful tool for developing character, cultivating leadership, and strengthening community values. The AIFF Zinc Blue Cubs League stands as a proud reflection of our dedication to nurturing grassroots talent and shaping the next generation of football stars from within our local communities.”
Zinc Football has consistently produced exciting talents for the national team. Mohammed Kaif, Prem Hansdak, Sahil Poonia and Ashish Mayla have already represented India on the international stage, with several others attending the national camp over the years. This incredible achievement brings to light the Zawar-based Academy’s commitment to excellence from the grassroots level and further consolidates its role in the betterment of Rajasthan as well as Indian Football.
Hindustan Zinc strategically fosters sports excellence, health, and fitness to drive community development and nation-building. The AIFF-accredited, 3-star-rated Zinc Football Academy in Zawar has produced players who have represented India internationally. At the grassroots level, we nurture talent in football, athletics, kabaddi, and volleyball, creating structured pathways for growth. Our flagship Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon, fondly known as India’s Most Beautiful Marathon, has placed Udaipur on the global running map, promoting tourism and culture of fitness. Recognized as one of India’s Top 10 social impact companies, Hindustan Zinc has positively impacted nearly 30,000 lives through its various sports initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to empowerment and social transformation.
