Real-life Chak De India: Coach takes Rs 10 lakh loan, leads MP’s underprivileged girls to historic football qualification

In a remarkable story of grit and belief, a football coach from Madhya Pradesh has turned personal financial risk into a historic sporting achievement, guiding a team of underprivileged girls into Tier 2 of the Indian Women’s League (IWL).

Param Ashawar, a 36-year-old NIS-certified coach, invested Rs 10 lakh through personal loans to support the District Raisen Football Club (DRFC), helping them break barriers in Indian women’s football.

Grassroots Football Success in Madhya Pradesh: DRFC’s Historic IWL Qualification

The District Raisen Football Club’s qualification for Tier 2 of the IWL marks a significant milestone for grassroots football in Madhya Pradesh, a state not traditionally known for producing top-tier football talent.


Competing in a challenging pool, DRFC finished joint third, securing four points with one win and one draw in their debut campaign.

Coach Param Ashawar’s Personal Sacrifice Fuels Team’s Rise

Ashawar funded the team’s training kits, travel and camp expenses through multiple loans, driven by his belief in the players’ potential.

“These girls had fire in their bellies but no resources,” he told The Times of India (TOI). “I couldn’t watch their talent go to waste. The loans were a small price to pay for securing their future in the sport.”

Despite mounting debt, the coach remains committed to supporting the team’s growth.

DRFC Upsets Odisha FC in IWL Qualification Campaign

One of the standout moments of DRFC’s campaign was their 1-0 victory over the more established Odisha FC, showcasing the team’s determination and resilience.

Forward Soni Munda, who scored the decisive goal, credited Ashawar’s dedication for the team’s breakthrough performance.

“Coach Param is our hero. We will never forget his dedication,” a player told TOI, adding that the team aims to return stronger and compete for the title.

Women’s Football in India: Breaking Barriers Through Determination

The success of DRFC highlights the growing momentum of women’s football in India, particularly at the grassroots level.

Ashawar’s efforts reflect the challenges faced by aspiring players in rural areas, where access to funding and infrastructure remains limited.

“I don’t know how I will repay the loans,” he said, as quoted by TOI. “But I am not losing sleep over it. The victories of my team more than make up for my worries.”

Madhya Pradesh Football Gains Recognition

The Madhya Pradesh Football Association hailed the achievement as a turning point for the sport in the state.

AIFF secretary Amit Ranjan Dev told TOI, “Raisen’s story inspires. It shows passion trumps money.”