By Gowher Bhat

The afternoon sun spills across the alleys of Baghati, Kanipora. Children race in small groups, their laughter and shouts echoing as a football bounces off the cracked concrete.

Tawseef Javid Bhat moves through them with a whistle around his neck. He gestures, calls out instructions, and breaks into laughter, keeping the energy alive and the game rolling.

“I started playing in 2016,” he says, catching a stray ball mid-air.“Sixth grade. Almaas FA first, then Al-Hilal FC. Later, I formed FC Battle Hawks. Football became my world.”

By the time he reached sixteen, Tawseef had represented his district four times and captained the Kashmir Division in inter-state tournaments twice.

Now he channels that experience into teaching young boys and girls, helping them dream beyond the limits of their streets.

He crouches to demonstrate a passing drill to the U17 girls' team.“It's not about kicking,” he says, voice sharp with energy.“It's about focus and teamwork. Football gives you purpose. It keeps you from distractions and drifting.”

Tawseef manages sessions for FC Battle Hawks and NEXTGEN FA. He charges no fees, insisting every child deserves a chance to play.“The lessons here, including patience, discipline and respect follow you off the field,” he says.

From the corner of a shop, Parvez watches.“Many kids were drifting. Now they are here, learning, staying productive.” Shafi, a parent, adds,“My daughter never liked sports. Now she runs to every session. She's learning football, confidence, teamwork. She's happier.”

The children shout, run, and stumble, but Tawseef is always there. Sixteen-year-old Ayan stops mid-drill.“Coach treats everyone the same. If you make a mistake, he says, 'Try again, you'll get it.'”

Zara beams.“I scored a goal last week. He ran and shouted with us. I felt like a star. I want to score more just to see him happy.”

Even the youngest challenge him.“Coach, pass faster! Or I'll beat you!” shouts twelve-year-old Imran. Tawseef ducks, spinning the ball past him, laughing.“Train hard, so next time you do.”

Tawseef's lessons move beyond the field.“Life is like football. You fall, you get back up, you support your team. Skills here carry you outside these lanes.”

Football shields children from the social pressures of Kashmir.“Talent is everywhere here,” the coach continues.“But many young people lose their way. Purpose, guidance, discipline keeps them focused.”

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