Bhaichung Bhutia launched new residential football academies in Punjab and Karnataka with the motto of bringing global expertise to Indian youth.
The newly opened campuses of BBFS (Bhauchung Bhutia Football Schools) in Punjab and Karnataka will be among the first to implement BBFS’s full collaboration with Southampton FC. Bhaichung Bhutia aims to provide young footballers advanced coaching curriculum developed by the English club.
In partnership with Southampton FC, BBFS athletes will gain unprecedented access to international exposure trips, including opportunities to train at Southampton’s world-renowned academy in England. It will help young Indian athletes to get expert guidance in India and the UK.
Talking about the launches Bhaichung Bhutia said, “Our partnership with Southampton FC brings global best practices in football coaching to India. With the opening of these two new campuses in Punjab and Karnataka, we aim to provide unparalleled opportunities for young footballers to develop their skills and prepare for success at the highest levels,”
On a regional basis, the Punjab campus is associated with Om Parkash Bansal Modern School and the Karnataka campus is with Akash International School.
These new centres mark a significant step in BBFS’s commitment to providing world-class football education across India, further expanding access to aspiring footballers in key regions.
BBFS, a three-star accredited academy by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), continues to prioritize the holistic development of its student-athletes. Life at BBFS Residential Academies offers a dynamic and nurturing environment where young athletes can thrive while staying at the campus throughout the year with like-minded peers.
Students benefit from a structured daily routine that balances rigorous football training with academic studies, ensuring a well-rounded education. The academies provide state-of-the-art facilities, including training pitches, fitness centres, and accommodations to foster teamwork and personal development. Moreover, the emphasis on sports science, performance analysis, and mental wellness equips athletes with essential skills for both their sporting careers and personal growth.
Since 2018, over 300 BBFS players aged between 9-18 have competed in national leagues, with many going on to represent India at the international level, including notable players like Manbhakupar Malngiang, Lionel D Rymmei, Bonifilia Shullai and Ribahunshisha Kharshiing.
