Udaipur, June 3, 2025 – With the youngest squad in the league, boasting an average age of just 18.3 years, Zinc Football Academy (ZFA) delivered an exceptional performance in the 2024-25 season. Competing against 10 teams from Rajasthan, the academy emerged as the top team. Based in Zawar, the academy secured 16 wins in 20 matches, scored 70 goals, and conceded only six throughout the season. Their dominance on both ends of the pitch was evident with an unbeaten streak of 13 consecutive matches and an impressive 16 clean sheets.

Star striker Karan Beniwal from Haryana emerged as the academy’s top scorer with 16 goals, followed by Ashish with 12 goals. A total of 17 different players scored during the campaign, highlighting the team’s depth, balance, and versatility.

Game Changer

Established in 2017, Zinc Football Academy has been a game-changer in nurturing grassroots football talent from rural India. Situated in Zawar and recognised as an AIFF-accredited 3-star academy, it has trained more than 5,000 young footballers since its inception. With a focus on excellence and holistic development, the academy has consistently produced promising players for the national level. Notable names like Mohammad Kaif, Prem Hansdak, Sahil Poonia, and Ashish Mayla have already worn the Indian jersey and made their mark on the international football scene.

Speaking on the successful season, Hindustan Zinc CEO Arun Misra said, “We are extremely proud of Zinc Football Academy’s victory in the league. Most of the players have been part of the academy since 2018, and this win reflects Hindustan Zinc’s vision of empowering India’s youth through sports. By identifying grassroots talent, our aim is to build tomorrow’s champions. We are committed to grooming young athletes for excellence in sports at both national and global levels.”

Trophy Returns

Organised by the Rajasthan Football Association (RFA), the two-month-long league follows a home-and-away format and began in April. After 20 matches, the trophy has returned to Zawar. The RFA will now nominate ZFA for the I-League 3, which is the fourth tier of Indian football.

RFA Secretary Dilip Singh Shekhawat said, “I congratulate Zinc Football Academy on a remarkable season. It’s truly gratifying to see young players from this state-of-the-art academy stand strong and compete fiercely against Rajasthan’s top teams. There is no doubt that these talented youth represent the bright future of football in Rajasthan and across India. We wish them the very best.”

Promoting Sports

Recognised as one of India’s top 10 social impact companies, Hindustan Zinc strategically promotes sports excellence, health, and fitness to foster community development and nation-building. Supported by Football Link as the strategy and implementation partner, the academy exemplifies Hindustan Zinc’s commitment to grassroots excellence and the betterment of both Rajasthan and Indian football.

Beyond football, Hindustan Zinc also nurtures talent in athletics, kabaddi, and volleyball, creating structured pathways for grassroots development. Its flagship event, the Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon – known as one of India’s most scenic marathons – has placed Udaipur on the global running map, boosting both tourism and a culture of fitness. Through these initiatives, Hindustan Zinc has positively impacted the lives of nearly 30,000 people, reinforcing its commitment to empowerment and social transformation.