Mumbai, Feb 14: Downtown Heroes Football Club (DHFC) was honoured with the prestigious Award Sports for Social Good award at The Hindu Group’s Sportsstar Ace Awards in a grand ceremony at the Taj Mahal Hotel, Mumbai Saturday. The award was presented by Nirmala Lakshman, Chairperson of The Hindu Group, to the club’s founders Kaiser Bhat, Mushtaq Bashir, and Hinan Manzoor.
Recognizing DHFC’s impact on youth development and social transformation through football, Nirmala Lakshman praised the club’s management and its remarkable achievements, emphasizing its role in promoting sports as a force for good.
Founded in 2020 with a mission to inspire and uplift young talent in Kashmir, Downtown Heroes FC has become a beacon of hope, fostering resilience, inclusivity, and sportsmanship in the region. Through their initiatives, the club has provided a platform for aspiring footballers, promoting positive engagement and community development. DHFC has emerged as a powerhouse for grassroots football, providing world-class training and opportunities for young players. The club, known for its motto “Players are bred, not born”, has played in prestigious tournaments like the Durand Cup and won the Srinagar Premier League in 2023.
The award ceremony saw sporting legends like Baichung Bhutia, Viswanathan Anand, and Olympic medallist P.V. Sindhu in attendance, all applauding DHFC’s commitment to excellence. As the club’s journey was showcased, the hall resonated with appreciation. Expressing his gratitude, Kaiser Bhat said, “This award strengthens our resolve to use football as a tool for social change.” Mushtaq Bashir added, “This is just the beginning; our dream is to take DHFC to greater heights.” Hinan Manzoor remarked, “Our success is a testament to the talent and determination of our players, and we are committed to building a legacy.” With its unwavering vision, Downtown Heroes FC is set to redefine football in India, inspiring the next generation of athletes and change-makers. The Sportstar Aces Awards, hosted annually by Sportstar, celebrate excellence in Indian sports, recognizing athletes, teams, and organizations that contribute significantly to the sporting landscape. Jay Shah, Chairman of the International Cricket Council was the chief Guest of the function.
