The AIFF launched the Golden Baby League project in 2018 in association with FIFA’s development program called FIFA Forward. The project is a long-term player development initiative with the aim of growing a new generation of players. The intent is that these players (boys and girls) will start playing football from a very young age. The belief behind the project is also that the ages between 6 to 12 years is the golden age of learning among children. Moreover, this project highlights the idea that learning through games and fun activities, bonds of friendship, and developing team spirit are key ingredients in honing a football player for life. 

We have completed two seasons (2018-2019 and 2019-2020) of the AIFF Golden Baby League.

Season 1 | 2018 – 2019

The first season of the AIFF Golden Baby League began in December 2018 and went on for a period of over four months. The league saw participation from the districts of Allappuzha, Kollam, and Pathanamthitta. There were about 720 players aged between 7 to 14 years who were divided into 32 teams. The categories of competition included Under 7, Under 11, and Under 13.

Season 2 | 2019 – 2020

The second season of the AIFF Golden Baby League was helmed under the banner of Allappuzha Little Champs. It saw a participation of about 730 players aged between 6 to 12 years from 12 different academies and schools. The competition had 467 games and happened over the course of four months. P Anilkumar, Kerala Football Association Secretary, inaugurated the league, and this was followed by distribution of jerseys by VHSS School Manager K I Rukminiamma.

Season 3 | 2022

The third season of the AIFF Golden Baby League was held under the banner of Alappuzha Little Champs. During this season, a girls only baby league was also conducted parallel to the regular league.  It saw a participation of about 730 players aged between 6 to 12 years from 12 different academies and schools. The competition had 467 games and happened over the course of four months. Mr. K A Vijayakumar, Kerala Olympic Association Senior Executive Member, inaugurated the league. Nooranad Circle Inspector Mr. P Sreejith inaugurated the girls only league. This was followed by distribution of jerseys by VHSS School Manager K I Rukminiamma.