Srinagar Jan 25: Real Kashmir Football Club Thursday resumed their practice for the 2nd round of I League season 2023-2024.
RKFC played their last game on December 24. The team currently holds the 2nd spot on the points table after completing Round 1 in 11 games. The team is scheduled to play an upcoming match against Mohammedan SC at Naihati Stadium Kolkata on February 04.
Despite the tragic loss of its owner Sandeep Chatoo on December 31, his family and RKFC staff are determined to carry his legacy in promoting football in Kashmir.
RKFC head coach Ishfaq Ahmad said they resumed their practice on Thursday after a gap of one month. He said after Sandeep’s death, his wife and son have decided to carry on running the club.
“The club was founded by Sandeep Chatoo who was passionate about providing a platform to local talent in Kashmir. His death is a huge loss to football in Kashmir. However, the family is determined to carry forward his vision,” Ishfaq said.
He said that RKFC has produced top players and also created employment opportunities.
RKFC manager Yasir Malik said the club lost its head. “Everyone in RKFC is passionate to take the vision of Sandeep forward,” he said, while describing RKFC as the main pillar and platform for local talent.
Formed in 2016 by Sandeep, RKFC has become a significant platform for valley youth. It has actively engaged in promoting local players, sending them to various countries, and competing in top leagues across India. Sandeep’s unwavering commitment to local players has resulted in many individuals from J&K participating in the country’s premier football leagues. The RKFC is the only club from J&K participating in the I League.