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Sethu FC Celebrates Children’s Day with Narikuravar

Chennai, 14th November — To mark Children’s Day, Sethu FC players visited the Narikuravar Colony in Kotturpuram, Chennai, in partnership with Future India FC, an initiative under Project Future India Trust, led by Ms. Kalyananthy Satchithanantham, Founder & Managing Trustee. Together, they brought an inspiring day of football, learning, and support to the children of this underrepresented indigenous community.

The Narikuravar community, a semi-nomadic indigenous group in Tamil Nadu, faces significant socio-economic challenges. Currently, around 90 families reside in the Kotturpuram colony, where basic amenities remain scarce. The community struggles with limited access to healthcare, education, and stable employment, contributing to an environment where children often leave school after the 9th grade to help support their families, and parents engage in labor under challenging conditions.

As part of their visit, Sethu FC donated school tool kits containing notebooks and essential stationery items to 50 children in the colony, helping them begin their educational journey with the necessary resources. The team also engaged the children in football games, encouraging physical activity, teamwork, and joy.

Mr. Seeni Mohaideen, President of Sethu FC, shared his thoughts on the event:

“Our mission at Sethu FC is to create meaningful impact, both on and off the field. By providing school kits and spending time with the children, we hope to plant seeds of hope and possibility. Every child deserves access to education and the chance to dream beyond their current circumstances.”

Ms. Kalyananthy Satchithanantham, Founder of Project Future India Trust, added:

“Through efforts like today’s visit, we aim to build bridges that connect these children to opportunities and support. Education is vital, and by encouraging them to stay in school, we’re helping create a brighter future for both the Narikuravar community and society as a whole.”

Sethu FC player Kaviya, originally from Mannargudi, engaged with young girls, sharing her own story and urging them to stay in school and reach for their dreams.

“Education is your key to a future with more opportunities,” she encouraged them. “Don’t let anything hold you back – you have the power to change your path.”

One young boy, Rishi, captured everyone’s attention when he shared his dream of building homes for his community. His words resonated deeply, highlighting both the aspirations and resilience of the Narikuravar community.

For those who wish to support the Narikuravar community, donations and contributions can be directed to [email protected]. Sethu FC remains dedicated to using sports and community engagement as tools to uplift and empower underserved communities across Tamil Nadu.

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Sethu FC Announces the Signing of International Forward Moussa Zouwairatou

Chennai, 2 November 2024 – Sethu FC is proud to announce the signing of Cameroonian forward Moussa Zouwairatou, an electrifying talent with a proven track record in international leagues and championship tournaments. Known for her versatility and goal-scoring prowess, Moussa joins Sethu FC ahead of the upcoming Indian Women’s League (IWL) season on a mission to make her mark and bring added depth and energy to our squad.

At just 23, Moussa’s career already boasts a wealth of experience across Africa and Europe. Her recent season with Wadi Degla SC in the Egypt Women’s Premier League saw her net an impressive 14 goals in 20 matches, in addition to 4 goals during the CAF Champions League campaign. Previously, Moussa has competed in Turkey’s Super League, Belarus’s Premier League, and Cameroon’s top leagues, where she earned both league and cup titles.

Beyond her club success, Moussa’s international accomplishments include appearances in two FIFA U17 Women’s World Cups and a silver medal at the 2019 African Games in Morocco. Her skill, resilience, and experience at such elite levels promise to be invaluable as Sethu FC gears up for another competitive IWL season.

Sethu FC’s President, Seeni Mohaideen shared their excitement for the new addition: “Moussa is an exceptional player who combines technical skill with a fierce commitment to the game. Her international experience and track record of success will inspire and motivate our squad. We’re delighted to welcome her to Sethu FC and are confident she will play a crucial role in our journey this season.”

Career Highlights:

• Egypt Women’s Super-Cup Winner and Final MVP (2023/24)

• Egypt Women’s Premier League – 14 goals, 5 assists (2023/24)

• CAF Champions League – 4 goals in 3 matches (2023/24)

• Turkish Super League Semi-finalist (2021/22)

• Belarus Premier League Bronze Medallist (2020)

• Cameroon Women’s League and Cup Champion (2018/19)

As Moussa joins us from Cameroon, we are excited to witness the energy and skill she will bring to the field, further strengthening Sethu FC’s lineup and ambition in the Indian Women’s League. We invite fans to join us in giving her a warm welcome and look forward to her contributions in the exciting season ahead.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Sethu FC Media Relations

Email: [email protected]

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Sethu FC Returns to Chennai’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium for Indian Women’s League

Chennai, August 21, 2024 – Sethu Football Club, based in Madurai, is thrilled to announce its return to Chennai’s iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium for the upcoming 2024-25 season of the Indian Women’s League (IWL). As the sole representative of Tamil Nadu in the IWL, Sethu FC eagerly anticipates the opportunity to once again play in front of its loyal home supporters after a season spent in Goa due to unforeseen circumstances.

The Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) has granted the club permission to use the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, providing a significant boost to the team as it prepares for the upcoming season. Playing in Tamil Nadu not only benefits the players but also helps reconnect with the club’s passionate local fan base, which has been a constant source of support since the team’s inception.

Expressing his gratitude, Club Chairman and Owner, Mr. Seeni Mohaideen, said:
“We express our sincere gratitude to the Government of Tamil Nadu for its pivotal role in the holistic development of sports across various disciplines in the state. Our special thanks go to the Honorable Deputy Chief Minister, Thiru Udhayanidhi Stalin, for granting permission to utilize Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium as the home ground for Sethu FC in the Indian Women’s League (IWL) 2024-2025 season. His continued support for women’s football is deeply valued.”

“We are also immensely grateful to the SDAT officials, particularly Thiru Meghanatha Reddy, IAS, the Member Secretary of the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT). Despite his busy schedule, he was instrumental in approving our request to play at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Providing this facility to Sethu FC, the only women’s football club from Tamil Nadu in the IWL, will help elevate the quality of the league, distinguish Tamil Nadu as a leader in promoting women’s football, and foster the growth of the sport in the region. After a challenging season in Goa, we are relieved and excited to be back in Chennai.”

With teams from all over India participating, this prestigious event shines a spotlight on Tamil Nadu, highlighting its growing significance in women’s football. The support of our local fans will provide a tremendous boost for our players.

With its return to Chennai, Sethu FC is gearing up for what promises to be an exciting IWL season. Having previously won the league and consistently performed at the highest level since the IWL’s inception in 2016, the team is poised to make a strong impact in the 2024-25 edition.

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Kemp FC and Sethu FC Announce Strategic Player Development Partnership

Bangalore/Madurai, September 9, 2024 – In a significant move for women’s football, Karnataka-based Kemp FC and Tamil Nadu-based Sethu FC have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance player development through a mutual player loan agreement. The partnership, which officially launches tomorrow, seeks to address the challenge of limited playing time during shorter league seasons by enabling players from both clubs to gain valuable competitive experience across different leagues.

Key Features of the Partnership:

  • Mutual Player Loans: Sethu FC players will join Kemp FC for the Karnataka Women’s League, while Kemp FC players will be loaned to Sethu FC for the Indian Women’s League (IWL). This ensures that players from both clubs maximize playing time and experience.
  • Increased Playing Opportunities: Players from both clubs will gain exposure to diverse match environments, further enhancing their skills and overall development.
  • Focused Player Growth: The collaboration focuses on creating a structured pathway for young talent, allowing them to benefit from consistent game time and exposure to varied coaching methods.
  • Shared Resources: Both clubs will pool resources, including coaching staff and training facilities, ensuring holistic development for their players.
  • Larger Talent Pool: This agreement creates a wider pool of highly developed players, benefiting both clubs and contributing to the broader growth of women’s football in India.

In the recently concluded KWL 2024, four players—Rivka Ramji, Priya Chettri, Mariyam Khatun, and Heena Khatun—were part of Kemp FC on loan from Sethu FC. This initial collaboration has highlighted the potential benefits of the strategic partnership and its positive impact on the women’s football ecosystem in India. A few Kemp FC players are also expected to join Sethu FC for the upcoming IWL campaign, further strengthening the synergy between the two clubs.

Statements from Leadership:

“We are thrilled about this partnership with Kemp FC. By sharing players and resources, we can provide our talent with more playing opportunities and support their growth in a meaningful way. This collaboration represents a significant step forward for player development in women’s football,” said Seeni Mohaideen, President of Sethu FC.

Kathleen De Saran, President of Kemp FC, added, “Kemp FC’s partnership with Sethu FC is an excellent opportunity for us to provide our players with higher competitive avenues, which is vital for their growth. The collaboration helps both clubs overcome the limitations of short league seasons while promoting player development.”


This partnership between Kemp FC and Sethu FC reaffirms their joint mission to nurture the next generation of football talent and provide a rich competitive experience for players at both clubs.

About Sethu FC:

Established in 2016, Sethu FC is a renowned women’s football club from Tamil Nadu, known for its focus on player development, competitive success, and its significant role in the women’s football community. Sethu FC claimed the prestigious Indian Women’s League (IWL) title in the 2018-19 season and triumphed in the Tamil Nadu Women’s League (TWL) in 2021-22. These victories highlight their commitment to excellence and their ongoing contribution to the growth of women’s football in India.

About Kemp FC:

Founded in 2022, Kemp FC is a prominent women’s football club based in Karnataka, dedicated to nurturing young talent and promoting excellence in Indian women’s football. In the 2024-25 season, Kemp FC made significant strides in the Karnataka Women’s League, finishing runners-up in the league on goal difference. Their stellar performance earned them promotion to the Indian Women’s League 2 (IWL 2), marking a major milestone in their journey and reinforcing their commitment to advancing women’s football in India.

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Sethu FC Signs Talented Winger Laishram Rejiya Devi

Sethu FC is thrilled to announce the signing of Laishram Rejiya Devi, a dynamic winger from Kakwa, Imphal East, Manipur. At just 19 years old, Rejiya has already achieved remarkable success in her football career. She represented India at the U17 FIFA World Cup in 2022 and played a key role in winning the SAFF U18 Championship in Odisha. Most recently, she was part of the squad that triumphed in the Senior National Championship 2024 in Kolkata.

Rejiya’s passion for football was inspired by her uncle, and she has become the first professional footballer in her family. Her father is self-employed, and her mother is a housewife. Despite no other professional footballers in her family, Rejiya has forged a successful path in the sport.

Club president, Mr. Seeni Mohaideen, shared his enthusiasm about the new addition:

“Rejiya brings a wealth of experience and a winning mentality to Sethu FC. Her achievements at both national and international levels are a testament to her talent and dedication. We are excited to see her contribute to our team and grow with us.”

Rejiya expressed her excitement about joining Sethu FC:

“I am honored to be a part of Sethu FC and look forward to this new chapter in my career. I am eager to bring my best to the field and contribute to the team’s success. Thank you to everyone who has supported me on this journey.”

Sethu FC is excited to welcome Rejiya and looks forward to her contributions to the team as they continue to support and develop exceptional talent in Indian women’s football.

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Sethu FC Secures Manipur’s Promising Midfielder Anju Chanu

Madurai, Tamil Nadu — 24 August 2024: Sethu FC is thrilled to announce the signing of 17-year-old Anju Chanu, one of Manipur’s most promising young football talents, to its squad. Anju, a dynamic midfielder, hails from Kanghuchingjin Khullen, Imphal East, Manipur, and has quickly made a name for herself with her exceptional performances on the field.

At just 17 years old, Anju has already proven her mettle in the footballing world. She played a pivotal role as a regular part of the Manipur state team during the Senior Nationals, where her team clinched the trophy by defeating Haryana in a thrilling final. Her consistent and outstanding performances throughout the competition marked her as a player to watch.

Anju was also a member of the Under-17 Indian National team, representing India in the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers in Thailand. Her skill, intelligence on the field, and dedication have earned her a place among the most promising young players in the country.

Anju’s journey began at SSC Sekta Football Club, where she first honed her skills. She continued her development at The Youth Welfare Club in Manipur, where her talent was nurtured over the years. Her rise in the sport is a testament to her hard work, discipline, and passion for football.

Anju comes from a supportive family, with her father, Kayenpaibam Narahari Singh, working as an assistant professor, and her mother, Kayenpaibam Bimola Devi, managing the household. She has two elder sisters who have been her pillars of strength throughout her journey.

Mr. Seeni Mohaideen, President of Sethu FC, expressed his excitement about Anju joining the team: “We are always open to welcoming young talents like Anju. Her intelligence on the field, combined with her dedication and potential, makes her a valuable addition to our team. We look forward to seeing her develop and contribute to our club’s success in the coming years.”

Anju’s coach, Wangkheirakpam Tomba Singh, also shared his thoughts on her signing: “I am incredibly happy that Anju’s talent has been recognized and picked up by Sethu FC for the upcoming Indian Women’s League (IWL). This will be her second IWL, and I have no doubt she will make a significant impact. I want to thank the Sethu FC team for believing in her potential and giving her this incredible opportunity.”

Anju Chanu is set to bring her skill and determination to Sethu FC, where she will continue to grow as a player and contribute to the club’s ambitions. Her signing marks another step forward in Sethu FC’s commitment to nurturing young talent and building a strong, competitive team for the future.

Apurna

Rainbows in the Rain: Apurna Narzary’s Story of Second Chances. 

In the serene village of Khagrabari, nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Assam, there lived a spirited young girl named Apurna. With the sun-kissed fields as her playground and the rustling trees as her audience, Apurna’s days were filled with mischief and laughter. From dawn till dusk, you could find Apurna racing across the village grounds, her nimble feet dancing to the rhythm of her dreams. But amidst the jubilant cheers and the playful banter, there lurked a dilemma – for you see, Apurna’s love for football often clashed with her mother’s insistence on timely meals.

Ah, the tales of woe that unfolded in the bustling Narzary household! While Apurna’s three sisters carried on with their daily routines, their mother found herself engaged in a relentless battle of wills with her spirited daughter. “Eat your meals, Apurna,” she would chide, her voice tinged with worry and exasperation, while her three sisters obediently complied. But Apurna, with a mischievous twinkle in her eye and a ball at her feet, would simply flash a grin and dash out the door, leaving her mother shaking her head in resignation.

But amidst the laughter and the play, there lay a dream – a dream of donning the colors of her nation and making her mark on the grand stage of Indian football. And so, with a heart full of hope and a determination that knew no bounds, Apurna embarked on a journey that would take her from the dusty village grounds to the grand stadiums of the Indian Women’s League.

Her journey was not without its trials and tribulations. As she awaited the next call after being shortlisted for the national team youth players during a trials organized by the national team department of AIFF, the shadow of a global pandemic cast a long shadow over her dreams. Locked down in her village, with the world at a standstill, Apurna refused to let despair consume her. Instead, she turned to the familiar embrace of the football pitch, practicing tirelessly day in and day out, her eyes fixed firmly on the future that awaited her.

Ah, but no tale of Apurna’s journey would be complete without mentioning her spirited encounters with her father, the very architect of her footballing dreams. In the early days, when Apurna was but a young lass with mischief in her eyes and a ball at her feet, her father’s relentless push for excellence often left her feeling exasperated and annoyed. Despite her protests and grumbles, Apurna begrudgingly obeyed her father’s every command, knowing that beneath his tough exterior lay a heart filled with nothing but love and a burning desire to see his daughter succeed. It was a relationship marked by equal parts frustration and admiration, as Apurna learned to navigate the delicate balance between rebellion and respect in her interactions with her father.

Two long years of lockdown went by, stretching on like a never-ending penalty shootout. And let me tell you, it felt even longer for poor Apurna, especially when she had her personal drill sergeant doubling as her father, making sure she kept up with her training regimen every single day. Yes, you heard it right – Apurna’s own flesh and blood, her dear old dad, took on the role of her personal physical trainer. Ah, the joys of family life, where even lockdown couldn’t stop the relentless pursuit of footballing dreams! And then, just when all hope seemed lost, a glimmer of light appeared on the horizon – a call from the national team department, beckoning Apurna to the trials for the SAFF U19 competition. With her heart pounding with excitement and nerves, Apurna set off for Goa, leaving behind the familiar comforts of home in pursuit of her dreams. The trials were grueling, the competition fierce, but Apurna refused to back down. Despite the doubts that lingered in her mind, she pushed herself to the limit, fueled by the unwavering support of her family and the dream of representing her country on the international stage.

Ah, the momentous occasion arrived when Apurna, with nerves and excitement coursing through her veins, took to the field for her first match against Bhutan. Not as a starter, mind you, but as a substitute – a role she embraced with all the enthusiasm of a child unwrapping a long-awaited gift. With her heart pounding and her eyes alight with determination, Apurna seized the opportunity to make her mark on the game, knowing that every moment on the field was a chance to prove her worth. As she returned from the SAFF U19 competition, where she valiantly served as a substitute, her spirit brimming with determination, fate had another surprise in store for her. It was during the SAFF U18 championship that Apurna truly came into her own, emerging as a key player in the Indian team’s quest for glory. With each match, her skill and tenacity shone brighter than ever, capturing the hearts of fans and teammates alike. And when the final whistle blew, signaling India’s victory over Bangladesh in the championship match held in Bhubaneshwar, Apurna found herself overcome with emotion. Returning to her village as a national champion was a moment she had never dared to dream of, yet here she was, basking in the adoration of her community. The reception was nothing short of magical, as villagers from far and wide gathered to honor their beloved champion. Apurna, her eyes shining with tears of joy, was overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support.

It was a reminder that in life, second chances are not just opportunities for redemption, but moments to shine even brighter than before. And for Apurna, this triumphant return home was just the first step on a journey that would take her from the dusty village grounds to the grand stadiums of the Indian Women’s League. But Apurna’s journey was far from over, as she continued to blaze a trail of success in the Indian Women’s League. From Indian Arrows to Kerala Blasters, each chapter of her story was marked by its own set of challenges and triumphs, but through it all, Apurna remained steadfast in her determination to succeed. However, just as she thought she had found her footing, fate threw another curveball her way. The teams she believed would be her platform for showcasing her skills and nurturing her development as a professional player were shutting down one by one. First, it was the disbandment of Indian Arrows, a team she had poured her heart and soul into. Then, she pinned her hopes on Kerala Blasters, who were venturing into women’s football for the first time. Alas, their dreams were short-lived as well, as Kerala Blasters decided to call it quits after just one season. Once again, Apurna found herself at a crossroads, searching for her next lucky break. It was then that Sethu FC stepped in, offering her a chance to reignite her passion for the game and continue her journey towards greatness. And with renewed determination, Apurna embraced this new opportunity, ready to write the next chapter of her footballing adventure with Sethu FC by her side.

And now, as Apurna takes to the field in the vibrant colors of Sethu FC, she knows that she has finally found her home. Surrounded by teammates who share her passion and a club that believes in her talent, Apurna’s journey is far from over – but with each step she takes, she moves closer to fulfilling her dreams and leaving a legacy that will inspire generations to come. 

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Sethu FC Prepares to Face Sports Odisha in Indian Women’s League Clash

Bhubaneswar, March 8, 2024 – Sethu FC, currently positioned 5th in the Indian Women’s League standings, is gearing up for a crucial encounter against Sports Odisha, the bottom-placed team in the league. The match is scheduled to take place at the Capital Ground Arena, Bhubaneswar, on March 9, 2024, at 3:00 PM.

In the pre-match press conference, Head Coach Kanan Priolkar emphasized the team’s commitment to developing young talents despite the standings. “After a significant 4-0 loss, it’s evident we have numerous areas to address. Our focus remains solely on our own improvement from this match onward. With not much at stake in terms of standings, we will continue our philosophy of developing young players through these games. Overcoming the devastating loss in the last game against Odisha FC is tough, but it’s a challenge we’re prepared to face head-on,” Coach Priolkar stated.

Captain Anjila Tumbapo Subba, representing the Nepal national team, echoed the sentiment of using the remaining games to hone the skills of the team’s youngsters. “At this stage, our sole objective is to secure three points. Despite starting the season strongly, our current position comes as a surprise. As I’ve mentioned previously, our team is young, and it’s crucial that we inspire each other for collective growth,” said Captain Anjila.

As the team prepares for the match, Sethu FC holds a record of 9 games played, accumulating 10 points with 3 wins, 1 draw, and 5 losses. The team has scored 8 goals and conceded 11. With a victory in the upcoming match, Sethu FC stands the chance to move up to the 4th position in the league standings.

On the other hand, Sports Odisha, occupying the last position in the league table among 7 teams, has played 10 games, securing only 2 points with 2 draws and 8 losses.

Sethu FC remains committed to playing for pride and aims to deliver an inspiring performance for its fans.

For further updates and information, stay tuned to Sethu FC’s official website and social media channels.


For Media Enquiries:
[email protected]

KAJOL KAVIYA

Sethu FC Players Kaviya and Kajol Earn Prestigious Call-Up to Represent Indian Women’s National Team

Madurai, February 18, 2024, Sethu FC proudly announces that two of its outstanding players, Kaviya Pakkirisamy from Tamil Nadu and Kajol Dsouza from Pune, have been chosen to represent the Indian Women’s National Team in the prestigious Turkish Women’s Cup 2024. This momentous tournament, scheduled from February 21 to 27, 2024, will see India compete against Estonia, Kosovo, and Hong Kong in a round-robin format.

Kaviya and Kajol’s selection is a testament to their exceptional skills, dedication, and consistent performances on the field. Both players have been standout performers for Sethu FC in the Indian Women’s League 2023–24 season.

Kajol and Kaviya celebrating a goal for Sethu FC in the Indian Women’s League 2023-24.

For Kaviya Pakkirisamy, this marks her first call-up to the Indian Women’s National Team, signifying a significant milestone in her burgeoning career. On the other hand, Kajol Dsouza’s experience and prowess bring depth and quality to the national squad as they prepare to face top-tier opposition in the Turkish Women’s Cup.

Sethu FC extends its warmest congratulations to Kaviya and Kajol on this remarkable achievement. Their selection to represent India at the Turkish Women’s Cup underscores their hard work, talent, and commitment to excellence.

The Indian Women’s National Team, under the leadership of head coach Langam Chaoba Devi, will face challenging opponents in their quest for glory. The fixtures for India at the Turkish Women’s Cup 2024 are as follows:

  • February 21, 2024:
    • India vs Estonia
    • Time: 19:00 IST
  • February 24, 2024:
    • India vs Hong Kong
    • Time: 19:00 IST
  • February 27, 2024:
    • Kosovo vs India
    • Time: 16:00 IST

As Kaviya and Kajol embark on this exciting journey to Turkey to compete in the Turkish Women’s Cup, Sethu FC wishes them the very best. We are confident that they will represent India with honor, passion, and skill, inspiring future generations of footballers across the country.

Additionally, our goalkeeper and captain, Anjila Tumbapo Subba, and defender, Gita Rana, will represent the Nepal Women’s National Team at the Eighth WAFF Women’s Championship in Saudi Arabia. Anjila and Gita have joined the Nepal’s squad for the tournament scheduled from February 19 to 29, 2024, in Jeddah.

Nepal received a special invitation to participate in the WAFF championship alongside teams from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Palestine, and Guam.

For media inquiries:
Please contact: [email protected]