Wikipedia - ARA FC

ARA Football Club is an Indian professional football club based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Founded in 2016, the club is nicknamed "Ahmedabad Alphas", and previously competed in I-League 2nd Division. ARA FC is the first professional team from Gujarat to compete in the nationwide league. The club also competes in Gujarat SFA Club Championship.

Their reserve and youth teams play in both Hero Sub-Junior League and Hero Elite League, while women team is member of Indian Women's League.

History

Academy and early years

Ahmedabad Racquet Academy (ARA) started its journey as a professional multi-sports academy in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, which mainly consists of racquet sports and has been running since 2011 and began participating in Ahmedabad Junior league. The football club was among the newest projects established by the academy in recent times as an initiative by owner Vikram Patel.

Formation of club

The existing academy owned by Patel emerged as ARA FC in 2016 to ensure development of football in the Indian state of Gujarat. On 19 July 2018, their academy were accredited and given two stars based on eligibility criteria, which allowed them to play in Youth League U18. ARA as a club became affiliated with Gujarat State Football Association (GSFA) in 2017, and began competing in the ADFA Premier Division League.

2018–present

On 20 November 2018, AIFF nominated ARA for proposed inclusion in the 2018–19 2nd Division League. On 7 December, it was announced that ARA FC would be one of nine clubs to play that season. Thus the Ahmedabad-based club became the only team from the state competing in a domestic tier league.

In their maiden I-League 2nd Division in the 2018–19 season, ARA finished on fourth place in Group A with 11 points in 8 matches as Lonestar Kashmir progressed to the final round.

They were nominated for participating in the 2021 I-League Qualifiers, since emerging victorious in Gandhinagar Premier League. They began their journey with a 1–1 draw against Corbett FC on 5 October at the Bangalore Football Stadium but did not advanced to the final round. In February–March 2023, the club participated in Stafford Challenge Cup in Bangalore. In August 2023, ARA gained I-League 3 spot to compete in the inaugural edition.

**Ara FC: A Rising Force in Indian Soccer**

Ara FC is an emerging soccer team based in India, dedicated to showcasing talent, fostering community spirit, and promoting the beautiful game across the nation. Founded with a vision to elevate the standards of soccer in the region, Ara FC combines a rich blend of youth potential and experienced players, creating a dynamic squad that is both competitive and entertaining.

**Team Philosophy:**
At Ara FC, the philosophy revolves around teamwork, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The club emphasizes the importance of developing homegrown talent, providing young athletes with the opportunity to hone their skills and gain valuable experience on the field. With a strong focus on sportsmanship and fair play, Ara FC aims to inspire the next generation of soccer players.

**Community Engagement:**
Ara FC is deeply rooted in its community, actively engaging with local schools, youth programs, and soccer academies. The team organizes workshops, training camps, and outreach programs to promote soccer at the grassroots level, ensuring that the sport continues to grow and thrive in the region.

**Competitive Spirit:**
Competing in various leagues and tournaments, Ara FC is known for its attacking style of play and tactical versatility. The team boasts a roster of skilled players who are passionate about the game and committed to achieving success on the field. With a dedicated coaching staff that emphasizes strategic development and player growth, Ara FC is poised to make its mark in Indian soccer.

**Fan Engagement:**
The passionate fan base of Ara FC plays a crucial role in the team's journey. With vibrant support during matches, the fans create an electrifying atmosphere that motivates the players to perform at their best. The club actively engages with its supporters through social media, events, and community initiatives, fostering a strong sense of belonging and pride.

**Vision for the Future:**
Ara FC envisions a future where it becomes a prominent name in Indian soccer, competing at the highest levels and contributing to the growth of the sport in the country. With a commitment to excellence, community involvement, and player development, Ara FC is not just a soccer team; it is a movement dedicated to the love of the game and the spirit of unity.

Join us as we embark on this exciting journey, and be a part of the Ara FC family!