Today’s story highlights the journey of a man whose work at BBFS (Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools) transcends coaching football; it’s about building a heritage that fosters talent and works towards creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to grow and succeed.

Dear readers, say hello to our champ, Vivek Rawat!

 Currently serving as the Head Coach and Tech Lead for Garhwal FC, a historic 70-year-old community-based club in Delhi, Vivek has been instrumental in shaping the future of football at both the grassroots and professional levels. His journey began during his college years, and today, he stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring coaches and players alike.

Early Beginnings

Vivek’s passion for football was ignited early on, thanks to his elder brother, a football enthusiast who would later become the Technical Director for a CSR project in Assam. Growing up in Delhi, Vivek’s playground was the Kerala School, a hub for the Malayali community where football was more than just a game. His coaching journey began while he was a student at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Physical Education, where he was pursuing a B.Sc. in Physical Education. “I began coaching at the British school as a part-time job for pocket money while in my second or third year,” Vivek recalls. This early exposure laid the foundation for his future endeavors in football.

Discovering BBFS

Vivek’s coaching career reached a transformative juncture in 2010, thanks to a groundbreaking workshop by BBFS. During a time when structured football training was rare in India, this workshop, in partnership with Futebol de Salao from Portugal, proved to be enlightening. “We were curious and excited about the workshop. It was a new concept back then,” Vivek explains. It equipped him with advanced coaching skills and offered him insights into modern coaching methodologies. This workshop was also instrumental in initiating Vivek’s lasting connection with BBFS, where he continues to play a crucial role in cultivating young footballers. 

Rising Through the Ranks

After the workshop, Vivek joined BBFS as a part-time coach while still working at the British School. It was his senior who advised him to choose between the short-term benefits of the British School and the long-term potential of BBFS. “I went with the long-term investment,” Vivek says, reflecting on his decision to go full-time with BBFS in 2011. 

Armed with knowledge and fueled by passion, Vivek’s ascent through the coaching ranks was swift and determined. His tenure at BBFS allowed him to don multiple hats—mentor, strategist, motivator. Over the past 14 years, Vivek has grown with the organization, contributing significantly to its mission of nurturing young football talent in India.

Coaching Philosophy and Approach

Vivek considers his coaching philosophy pretty straight forward. “I focus on TRP – Trust, Respect, and Persistence,” he explains. He emphasizes a playing style that prioritizes reaching the attacking third as quickly as possible, valuing speed and aggressiveness. Mistakes, he believes, are part of the learning process. “Mistakes are not a problem. It’s about how you recover and reshape yourself after them,” he says.

Role and Achievements at BBFS

Currently, Vivek’s role at BBFS includes leading Garhwal FC and overseeing the residential academy at Vedas International School in Sohna. Under his leadership, Garhwal FC has thrived and secured major milestones, and Vivek is now focused on expanding the club’s structure by establishing a reserve team and a youth setup. His commitment to the club and his players is evident in his dedication to their growth and development, both on and off the field.

A Family-Like Culture at BBFS

One of the main reasons Vivek has dedicated so many years to BBFS is the organization’s distinctive and nurturing culture. “It’s a family,” he remarks, reflecting a sentiment widely shared among BBFS staff. This tight-knit sense of solidarity and support defines the BBFS experience. Central to their approach is the philosophy of “guided discovery,” which encourages both players and staff to think independently and learn through experience. “We ask questions instead of giving answers, allowing players to think and discover solutions on their own,” Vivek explains.

A Message to Aspiring Coaches and Players

When asked about his message for those interested in joining BBFS, Vivek shared valuable insights into the academy’s unique approach. He emphasized the importance of self-direction and goal-setting at BBFS. “At BBFS, nobody’s going to tell me what I have to do. I have to think for myself and do my role. I have to be aware of my responsibilities and create my own goals,” he elaborates.

Vivek pointed out that understanding this aspect is crucial, as many people may initially feel lost without explicit instructions. However, he believes that this autonomy is key to effective learning and personal growth. “When you think about it and when you plan it, you’re going to do it properly,” he noted.

To those who are confused or unsure about joining, Vivek says:”This is the best platform for anyone who wants to explore different facets of football. To dive and go deeper.” 

Looking Ahead

Vivek Rawat envisions a promising future for both himself and BBFS. His ultimate goal is to see Garhwal FC competing in the Indian Super League (ISL) within the next five to six years. With BBFS offering a structured pathway for young players, spanning school programs to college and club structures, he is confident that the organization is uniquely positioned to make a lasting impact on Indian football.

Vivek’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of passion, dedication, and a supportive environment, gently reminding us of  how these elements can significantly shape an individual’s career and the future of a sport.

Read more about BBFS Residential Academy

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