In a land where hockey once ruled every playground and produced legends for the nation, a new sport is beginning to script its own story with football finding its heartbeat in Punjab. The state, long celebrated as the cradle of Indian hockey, is fast emerging as an unexpected football powerhouse.
Following Punjab FC’s commanding 3–0 win over Gokulam Kerala FC in their AIFF Super Cup opener, head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis believes the region is ready to embrace a new sporting identity, thanks to Roundglass.
Talking to News Arena India, the Greek tactician said, “If there’s one place where football can truly grow in this part of the world, it’s here in Punjab. The passion, the discipline and the facilities at the Roundglass Punjab FC Academy make it the perfect ground for nurturing future footballers.”
For decades, Punjab’s turf fields echoed with the rhythm of hockey sticks and the dreams of Olympians. But today, there’s a different kind of energy, the sound of football boots striking the ball, the chants from local supporters and the belief that Punjab can become the next footballing hub of India.
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At the heart of this transformation is the Punjab FC Academy, one of India’s most advanced youth setups. Offering world-class training across all age categories, the academy emphasises holistic player development. The AIFF has rewarded Punjab FC's efforts by giving it a 5-star rating in its Annual Academy Accreditation Programme for 2025–26. Roundglass Punjab FC is one of only three academies to earn the prestigious 5-star rating out of the 142 clubs that had applied for it.
But Dilmperis, who has worked with football clubs across Europe, dismissed comparisons between India and established football nations. “That’s a different level of the sport,” he said. “But talent is universal — and what I see here in Punjab is genuine passion. This is how football begins — in small pockets, with big dreams.”
The coach credited his team’s success to unity rather than individual brilliance. “Every player plays a role, win or lose. It’s always the team effort that counts,” said Dilmperis, who also confessed his fondness for Manchester United despite their struggles in the ongoing Premier League season.
As Punjab shifts from being India’s hockey heartland to a rising football force, it represents more than just sporting evolution… it’s a generational change. In a country where cricket dominates and hockey holds history, Punjab is quietly scripting India’s next great sporting chapter, one goal at a time.
By Joe Williams
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