Telangana boy,Rudraksh makes cut to national football academy

Rudraksh Bansal of Glendale Academy has been selected as the only player from Telangana for the AIFF-FIFA Academy, joining 18 others from across India after five rounds of rigorous trials

Hyderabad: Rudraksh Bansal, a ninth Grade student of Glendale Academy (Sun City) had been selected for the esteemed AIFF FIFA Football Academy in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

Rudraksh is the only student from Telangana to earn this honour, and is among a select group of just 19 players chosen from across the country, after clearing five intense rounds of selection from among hundreds of aspiring footballers nationwide.

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The AIFF-FIFA Academy, established under FIFA’s Goal Project, is a flagship initiative aimed at identifying and developing India’s most promising young football talent.

Minu Salooja, Director, Glendale Schools India said Rudraksh’s , selection into the prestigious AIFF FIFA Academy was a shining example to his grit, discipline, and unrelenting passion for the sport.

“It’s not just a personal victory—it’s a moment of great honour for Glendale and a proud milestone in our journey of nurturing global talent.”

“Following in the footsteps of our alumnus Shaliyanth Reddy, who is currently associated with FC Bayern Munich in Germany, Rudraksh has reaffirmed Glendale’s standing as a cradle for world-class sporting excellence.,” the official release said.

For his part, Rudraksh said to be picked for the AIFF FIFA Academy was a dream come true.

“It’s an incredible honour to represent my state and be among the 19 chosen from across the country. The journey hasn’t been easy, but every drop of sweat and every setback has shaped me into the player I am today,” he said.

“I am truly grateful to my coaches, mentors, and especially Glendale International School for believing in me and giving me the foundation to chase my dreams. This is just the beginning; I am committed to working harder and making my school and country proud,” Rudraksh said.