In just over 6 years since its inception, Zinc Football Academy, a CSR initiative of Hindustan Zinc, has achieved yet another significant milestone by being awarded the prestigious ‘Elite 3-star’ rating by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). This recognition firmly places Zinc Football among the best youth development academies in India, marking a historic moment in the academy’s journey.
A Commitment to Talent Development
- Zinc Football Academy’s program operates on a full-scholarship model, demonstrating its commitment to fostering and nurturing young footballing talent.
- Within a short span of time, the academy has achieved several landmarks, and it currently hosts over 70 budding footballers categorized under the age groups of under-13, under-15, under-17, and under-19.
- These young talents receive daily access to state-of-the-art infrastructure, world-class facilities, education, nutrition, hostel facilities, and top-notch training – all provided completely free of cost.
Holistic Approach to Development
- The academy’s holistic approach extends beyond football training, focusing on the overall development of the young athletes as future thought leaders of society.
- Zinc Football Academy is not only shaping skilled footballers but also nurturing well-rounded individuals.
Celebratory Remarks and Congratulations
- Mr. Arun Misra, CEO of Hindustan Zinc, expressed joy, stating, “It’s a historic moment as our Academy is officially among the best in the country.”
- Mr. Dilip Singh Shekhawat, Secretary of the Rajasthan Football Association, also congratulated Zinc Football Academy, affirming its Elite 3-star rating from AIFF, acknowledging it among India’s top football academies.
Paving the Way to Excellence
- The Elite 3-star rating opens new doors for Zinc Football Academy, allowing it to participate in the prestigious AIFF Youth League alongside the youth teams of ISL and I-League clubs.
- These tournaments not only showcase the academy’s talent but also provide a golden opportunity for young players to get scouted for the national team.
Producing National Talents
- Zinc Football Academy has already proven its success by producing two talents for the India under-16 and under-17 national teams.
- These young athletes not only clinched victory in the Rajasthan State Men’s League in 2021 but also excelled in academics, with two consecutive DAV HZL School toppers in board exams emerging from the academy.
- This achievement highlights the success of the academy’s student-athlete model and its holistic approach towards development.
A Legacy of Sports Support
- Hindustan Zinc’s association with sports spans almost five decades, starting with the establishment of its football stadium at Zawar in Rajasthan in 1976.
- For the past 50 years, the company has organized National Football Tournaments annually at Zawar Stadium.
- Additionally, Hindustan Zinc has supported numerous athletes in the past, contributing to the country’s success in international events.
Important Questions Related to Exams
Q: What model does Zinc Football Academy operate on?
A: Zinc Football Academy operates on a full-scholarship model, providing education, training, and facilities completely free of cost to young talents.
Q.How many national talents has Zinc Football Academy already produced?
A: Zinc Football Academy has already produced two national talents for the India under-16 and under-17 national teams.
Q: Since when has Hindustan Zinc been associated with sports?
A: Hindustan Zinc has been associated with sports for almost five decades, starting with the establishment of its football stadium at Zawar in Rajasthan in 1976.