Published: June 5, 2026 at 8:44 pm
The Young Telangana Football League (YTFL) 2026–27 commenced on Friday at LB Stadium, Hyderabad, under the joint initiative of the Government of Telangana, the Sports Authority of Telangana (SATG), and the All India Football Federation (AIFF), and supported by Sports Paddock.
Speaking on the occasion, Sonibala Devi, vice-chairperson & managing director, Sports Authority of Telangana, stated that the Young Telangana Football League (YTFL) has been launched with the objective of promoting football at the grassroots level and creating opportunities for children to learn, compete, and develop their sporting talent in a professional way from an early age.
She said that the league represents an important step towards building a strong football league culture in Telangana, where young athletes can participate in structured competitions and progress through a well-defined development pathway. Conducted in a 5-a-side format for Under-12 boys and girls, the tournament brings together young footballers from leading academies and clubs across Hyderabad.
Teams from LB Stadium, Petra Sports Club, Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools (BBFS), REEDS Football Academy, Gymkhana Football Team ORO FC are participating in the tournament.
The matches are being conducted under the supervision of AIFF technical officials, ensuring adherence to professional standards and regulations. One of the key objectives of the league is talent identification. Promising players identified during the tournament can participate in a structured weekend Elite coaching programme free of cost at LB Stadium under the guidance of FIFA and AIFF.
The inaugural event was graced by former Indian football team captain Victor Amalraj and he appreciated the initiative taken by the SATG to encourage and promote young football talent.
Senior footballers Zakir Hussain, Yedukondalu, Jameel Shameem, Chandra Shekhar, and senior officials and deputy directors of the SATG, who interacted with the young players and encouraged them to pursue the sport with dedication and enthusiasm.
The tournament witnessed enthusiastic participation from players, parents, family members, and summer camp trainees, creating a vibrant and encouraging atmosphere at the venue.
Through initiatives such as the Young Telangana Football League, Sports Authority of Telangana continue to strengthen grassroots sports development, encourage physical activity among children, and create opportunities for young talent to excel and represent the State at higher levels of competition.
