Total Football Academy is a grassroot initiative aligned with the National Sports Policy 2025. It uses football to drive social development, women’s empowerment, and community change.

In the heart of Mumbai, at Ghatkopar, Total Football Academy is using football as a powerful tool for social development and gender equality. Founded by coach Shrikant Chendwankar in 2018, the academy’s vision aligns closely with the National Sports Policy 2025 objectives. With over 40–50 children from diverse and often underprivileged backgrounds, the academy has become a safe and inclusive space where both boys and girls can learn, grow, and dream equally.

“My aim is to create superstars for the national team, especially in girls’ football. And also I want my players to play in Europe,” Shrikant admits proudly.

Beyond players, his academy has already supported young women in becoming coaches, helping them secure jobs and financial independence. This commitment directly addresses the empowerment of women. 

“We are not playing to win just trophies and win a lot of medals. Whatever our academy is doing it is for social development as well as economic development. There are girls and boys who we help in finding a good job so that they can become self-reliant and grow their communities”, Shrikant said. 

Parents are central to this change. Pradeep Gawde, who supports both his son and daughter, said, “I see potential in women’s football and support my daughter fully. I come and watch both my children play.”

This kind of family support is vital in a country where girls’ participation in sports often faces barriers. Here, however, the ground tells a different story, which is one of shared opportunities and equal encouragement.

For the players, football is far more than just a game. Priya, one of the young athletes, expressed it best, “Football is  not just a game for me, it is like my home.”

Her words reflect how sport can provide identity, belonging, and confidence. Shravani dreams of making a professional career in football, while Kiya, inspired by her idol Sergio Ramos, looks to emulate her hero’s spirit on the field. These stories show how football can shape ambition, build resilience, and inspire futures.

Total Football Academy is more than a training ground. It is a movement for change. It brings children from all backgrounds together, teaches them discipline and teamwork, challenges gender stereotypes, and provides a platform to compete at higher levels. In doing so, it stands as a shining example of how sport can truly drive social development, women’s empowerment, and equality, turning the vision of the National Sports Policy 2025 into an everyday reality.