A New Dream Begins: Sunday Football League for Indian Diaspora Kids Kicks Off in Frankfurt
It was a Tuesday evening to remember—when twilight draped the FSV Frankfurt Stadium in a golden glow, and a new chapter of belonging, dreams, and football quietly took its first breath.
In the presence of young footballers and wide-eyed Indian diaspora children, an extraordinary initiative was announced—The Sunday Football League for Indian Diaspora Kids in Germany.
This visionary grassroots project was jointly unveiled by Mr. B.S. Mubarak, the Hon’ble Consul General of India in Frankfurt, and Mr. Robert Lempka, Managing Director of FSV Frankfurt, in a celebration that brought together football, identity, and hope under the open sky.
The League is a collaborative effort by FSV Frankfurt and the India Football Centre, supported by the Consulate General of India, Frankfurt, powered by the warmth of Ruchi Restaurant, and in proud association with Maitree.
A Field of Roots and Dreams
As children played around the touchlines and the Indian tricolour danced gently in the evening breeze, something profound stirred in the hearts of those present. The Sunday Football League isn’t just another tournament—it’s a movement, a mirror, and a message.
It tells every child of Indian origin growing up in Germany:
“Your dreams matter. Your roots are strength. And this field is yours.”
Starting soon, Indian-origin boys and girls aged 8 to 12 will train and compete every Sunday at the historic FSV Frankfurt grounds, under the guidance of UEFA-licensed coaches. They will be nurtured not only as footballers—but as bridges between two cultures.
More Than a Game:
What sets this league apart is its soul.
It is football wrapped in identity,
discipline touched by celebration,
and coaching infused with culture.
Through nutrition and wellness sessions led by Ruchi Restaurant, football celebrations tied to Indian festivals, and the constant presence of a community that sees them, these young players will grow—not just as athletes, but as proud carriers of their dual heritage.
The India Football Centre will monitor and scout talent for potential pathways into professional football, whether in Germany, India, or beyond.
Thank You to the Dreamers
This moment could not have happened without those who dared to dream—and act.
My deepest gratitude to:
Mr. B.S. Mubarak, whose presence and passion gave this initiative a powerful foundation.
Mr. Robert Lempka, for believing in inclusion through sport.
Mr. Vibha Kant Sharma,Head of Chancery, Consulate General of India, Frankfurt Mohun ,Owner of Ruchi Restaurant Shubrajyoti Basu, Manas Ganguly (both founding members of Maitree ) and every silent warrior who stood beside this idea.
To Ruchi Restaurant for nourishing the mind and spirit of this league.
And to Maitree, for bringing the community’s heart to the forefront.
A Tuesday That Touched the Future
As the sun dipped below the stands and the laughter of children echoed across the field, we witnessed more than an announcement. We witnessed a beginning.
A beginning where Indian diaspora kids don’t have to choose between cultures—they can celebrate both.
Where football is not just a sport—it is a story of inclusion, growth, and identity.
Where a league can turn into a launchpad for stars—on the pitch and off it.
This is the Sunday Football League.
A field where the ball meets belonging.
Where every pass carries purpose.
Where Indian dreams find German turf—and thrive.
“Because when the children ran across the stadium grass on that Tuesday evening, they weren’t just chasing a ball.
They were chasing a future that now has a name.”