From Relegation to Redemption: HOPS FC Storm Back to Indian Women’s League with Unbeaten Title Triumph -2026
In a remarkable story of resilience, vision, and grassroots development, HOPS FC have secured promotion back to the Indian Women’s League after an unbeaten title-winning campaign in the IWL 2 final round held in Bengaluru.
For founder Sanjay Yadav, the achievement represents far more than a return to the top division. It is the continuation of a mission that began in 2008 with a singular goal: empowering young girls through football.
A Vision Rooted in Grassroots Development
An engineer in a government organization, Sanjay Yadav established the club under the Dharam Foundation Trust. Originally known as South West Delhi FC, the club was officially registered as HOPS FC (House of Power Soccer Football Club) in 2017.
Operating from Paprawat Village in Najafgarh, New Delhi, and later expanding to a four-acre football training facility in Alakhpura Village, Bhiwani, Haryana, the club has become a beacon of hope for talented girls from rural and economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
HOPS FC provides free training, accommodation, meals, education support, medical treatment, injury rehabilitation—including ACL and ligament surgeries—and assistance in securing employment opportunities through the sports quota system.
Rapid Rise in Indian Women’s Football
The club quickly established itself as one of the strongest women’s football institutions in the country.
After reaching the final of the Delhi Senior Women’s League in their debut season, HOPS FC won the inaugural Delhi Women’s Premier League in 2022-23 with a perfect record, earning qualification to the Indian Women’s League.
Their first top-flight campaign in 2023-24 was highly impressive as they reached the knockout stage and later secured a fifth-place finish, cementing their status among India’s elite women’s football clubs.
However, the 2024-25 season proved difficult. HOPS FC finished at the bottom of the table and were relegated to IWL 2.
The Rebuild and Revival
Determined to bounce back stronger, the club appointed Ravi Kumar Punia as head coach, with Sonika Vijarniya playing a crucial role in the squad’s preparation and development.
The impact was immediate.
HOPS FC dominated Group B in the qualifying stage, winning all four matches to book their place in the final round in Bengaluru.
Perfect Campaign in Bengaluru
Facing some of the best second-division clubs in the country, HOPS FC displayed defensive solidity, tactical discipline, and composure throughout the tournament.
They defeated:
- Krida Prabodhini – 3-0
- Mumbai Knights – 2-0
- Kemp FC – 1-0
- Suruchi Sangha – 1-0
- Juba Sangha – 1-0
HOPS FC finished with a flawless record of five wins in five matches, scoring eight goalsand conceding none, securing the IWL 2 title with 15 points.
Voices Behind the Success
“This promotion means a lot because we have seen every phase as a club,” said Sanjay Yadav. “Our larger mission is empowerment through sport.”
Coach Sonika Vijarniya emphasized the emotional significance of the triumph.
“Many of these girls have overcome financial and personal challenges to stay in football. This promotion is a reward for their resilience.”
Ravi Kumar Punia credited the squad’s discipline and hunger.
“To go through the final round without conceding a goal reflects the collective effort and mentality of the entire team.”
Beyond Football: Changing Lives
HOPS FC’s impact extends far beyond the pitch.
Several players developed by the club have represented India at youth international tournaments, including the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
More than 60 girls have secured government and institutional jobs through the sports quota, while over 40 girls have completed coaching and referee license courses with support from the Dharam Foundation.
A Unique Model in Indian Football
HOPS FC remains one of the few clubs in Indian women’s football operating primarily through a trust-based model rather than commercial ownership. Their commitment to free access, education, and holistic development makes them a unique and inspiring institution in the country’s sporting landscape.
Redemption Complete
After experiencing the disappointment of relegation, HOPS FC have scripted one of the most inspiring comeback stories in Indian women’s football.
Their return to the Indian Women’s League is not just a sporting achievement—it is a testament to perseverance, grassroots development, and the transformative power of sport.
With promotion secured and momentum restored, HOPS FC now look ahead to the upcoming IWL season with renewed confidence and a continued mission to empower young women through football.
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