India’s Sports For Life (SFL) Football League wrapped up its inaugural Pune season on May 20 with five age category finals, as former Indian national team captain Bhaichung Bhutia unveiled the season trophy and praised the platform’s commitment to structured youth development.
South United Kharadi claimed the marquee Under-15 title by defeating The Oranje Academy in a high-intensity final. Rising Pune FC won the Under-11 category against 4 Lions Academy Wakad Oranje, while Young Steps FA took the Under-13 crown over Metrocity FA. In the younger age groups, Futbol Futuro edged Jaguars FA in the Under-9 final and UKM Kothrud FA defeated Metrocity FA to win the Under-7 title.
Bhutia, whose association with SFL began during the platform’s Mumbai launch, praised the league for giving young players structured, regular competitive exposure that bridges academy training and elite level selection.
The Pune edition drew participation from established local academies and emerging football schools, providing many young athletes their first experience of a professionally managed season complete with fixtures, standings, and match officials. All games were live-streamed through the SFL App, which also captures player statistics and performance data accessible to coaches, players, and families.
SFL’s Mumbai operation is currently in its second season. The organisation has indicated plans to extend the league model to additional Indian cities, with a Pune Season 2 expected later this year.
