MUMBAI
The Premier League is doubling down on its mission to transform Indian football through a new strategic partnership with the Dream Sports Foundation (DSF). Hrishikesh Shende, Managing Director of Premier League India, announced that the world’s most-watched football league will provide technical expertise and coaching mentorship for the upcoming Dream Sports Championship, set to kick off in Goa on May 3.
Since opening a dedicated office in Mumbai last year, the Premier League has shifted its focus toward long-term grassroots development. This latest collaboration will see Premier League experts conducting high-impact workshops and masterclasses for Indian coaches. These sessions aren’t just about tactics, they will cover everything from physical conditioning and sports psychology to leadership and training methodologies used by top English academies.
Key highlights of the partnership include:
- Coach Development: Masterclasses for staff involved in the Under-16 AIFF Junior League and the Dream Sports Championship.
- Knowledge Exchange: Sharing global best practices to elevate the standard of Indian football academies.
- Player Pathways: Creating clear routes for young talent to compete and learn at international standards.
Neel Shah, CEO of Dream Sports Foundation, emphasized that unlocking India’s potential requires a “strong focus on both player and coach development.” By professionalizing the support staff and improving the quality of training at the youth level, the partnership aims to build a sustainable ecosystem for the sport in India. As the tournament in Goa approaches, the collaboration signals a major step forward in bringing world-class footballing knowledge to the Indian heartlands.