East Bengal and Mohun Bagan will probably always be the first names that come to mind, when you think of Indian football. But a number of lesser known clubs, which had been languishing at the bottom of league tables, are being given a fresh lease of life, courtesy corporate sponsorships.
The New Delhi Heroes is a classic case in point on the merits of money well channelised in Indian football.
The New Delhi Heroe's has undergone a sea change since being taken over by the art auction house Osian and sports management company IOS about three months ago.
"The club eventually is a 1939 club but we revamped the whole structure was revamped. We got Chima Okerie in and we set up our own technical committee and the whole club was revamped. We got three Nigerians, who Chima selected," said Nerav Tomar, CEO, Infinity Optimal Solutions.
"So, it's just three months old, we are building up on the whole club and the whole talent structure is being built up right now," said Tomar.
The new face of the club is unmistakable and the results are there for everyone to see.
The 68-year-old Delhi club has won both the matches they have played so far in the ongoing Durand Cup and are just one win away from qualifying for the main draw.
The coach, though a hard task-master knows how much easier his job has become, thanks to his sponsor's deep pockets.
"Now I have the flexibility to travel, to see young players, to bring them in. We started late during the transfer season last time, but this time we want to get the best players available," said Chima Okerie, Coach, New Delhi Heroes.
From coaches to the players and the fans, the money being pumped into Indian football is bringing about a welcome change for everyone involved with the game.
The Osian's New Delhi Heroes is a club that stands testimony to the fact that corporate sponsorship can go a long way in promoting the beautiful game in India.
New Delhi Heroes undergo sea change
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