In a landmark collaboration that promises to blend the worlds of football and social responsibility, Chennaiyin FC has joined forces with HCLFoundation, the social responsibility arm of the global tech giant HCLTech in India. As the official Social Cause Partner for the 10th season of the Indian Super League (ISL), this partnership aims to nurture football talent at the grassroots level and leverage the sport as a powerful tool for youth empowerment and community engagement.
Chennaiyin FC and HCLFoundation join hands to promote football at grassroot level
Empowering Youth Through Football
Chennaiyin FC, celebrated for clinching the ISL title twice, and HCLFoundation are set to embark on a mission to foster football among the youth, creating opportunities for engagement, empowerment, and positive social change. Dr. Nidhi Pundhir, Vice President of Global CSR at HCLTech and Director of HCLFoundation, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “Together, we aspire to create a legacy of sportsmanship and community engagement that inspires generations.”
Ekansh Gupta, Vice President of Chennaiyin FC, highlighted the significance of this partnership in the club’s journey towards utilizing football as a platform for broader social impact. By empowering the youth, nurturing talent, and promoting inclusivity, the club is committed to cultivating a vibrant ecosystem where dreams and communities can thrive.
Inclusive Initiatives and Community Engagement
As part of their collaborative efforts, Chennaiyin FC extended an invitation to 500 students and young participants of HCLFoundation’s Sports For Change (SFC) initiative to attend an ISL game at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai. In a heartwarming gesture, 20 children from the SFC program had the honor of escorting Chennaiyin FC players onto the pitch, symbolizing the inclusive spirit of this partnership. Additionally, select matches will be live-streamed for students associated with Police Boys and Girls Clubs in Arumbakkam and Kannaginagar, Chennai, ensuring broader access to the excitement of ISL games.
Sustainability and Professional Development Efforts
Beyond the field, Chennaiyin FC players and staff members will contribute to environmental sustainability through a plantation activity at a Harit afforestation site, demonstrating their commitment to ecological well-being. The team also plans to visit the Kannaginagar Police Boys and Girls Club, engaging with SFC students to motivate and encourage them to pursue sports professionally, showcasing the transformative power of sports in shaping futures.
A Vision for the Future
This partnership between Chennaiyin FC and HCLFoundation is more than just a collaboration; it’s a visionary effort aimed at harnessing the potential of sports to drive social change, empower the youth, and build stronger, more engaged communities. As the ISL’s 10th season unfolds, this partnership stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration, promising to leave a lasting impact on the lives of many and the fabric of the community it serves.
By fostering grassroots football and promoting inclusivity and empowerment, Chennaiyin FC and HCLFoundation are setting a new benchmark for how sports organizations can play a pivotal role in societal development. This strategic collaboration underscores the potential of leveraging sports for achieving broader social objectives, making it a model worth emulating in the sporting world and beyond.
