Kashmir’s real torchbearers: Snow Leopards prepare for IFL in sub-zero conditions | Football News

New Delhi: Few clubs in Indian football have risen as quickly or as emblematically as Real Kashmir FC. From its debut season to becoming a consistent contender in the Indian Football League (IFL), the Srinagar-based club has earned a reputation for resilience and ambition. However, as the upcoming I-League season prepares to kick off on February 21, the Snow Leopards find themselves in familiar territory of uncertainty both on and off the field.Push boundaries with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!Real Kashmir are two-time IFA Shield champions (2020 and 2021) and have finished in the top five of the I-League six times in the seven seasons they have been in the competition. However, the postponement of the season has posed significant logistical and financial challenges for Real Kashmir and clubs across the league.Club owner Arshad Shawl, who took over as a member of the leadership in 2019, acknowledged that the turmoil was the result of more than a decade of a system that relied too much on a single private entity.“You have to understand the ecosystem of Indian football over the last 15 years,” Shore told TOI. “There were no contingency plans in place when private support was withdrawn.”With the All India Football Federation (AIFF) facing financial pressure, I-League clubs have been forced to bear most of the operational burden themselves. For real Kashmir, the geographical and climatic challenges are even more complex. Pre-season preparations in sub-zero temperatures combined with an uncertain schedule make the task even more daunting.“Starting the season is like starting a frozen engine in sub-zero temperatures and asking it to run a rally,” Shore added.Despite the obstacles, the club’s philosophy remains firmly rooted in local identity. Real Kashmir has always prioritized Kashmiri players and homegrown talent and the appointment of former India international and Kashmiri Ishfaq Ahmed as head coach reflects this vision. Under his guidance, the club has become a platform for local footballers to achieve bigger dreams. “This club puts Kashmir on the front page for a much happier reason,” Shore said. “It makes the world see Kashmir through the lens of football.”In addition to the first-team squad, Real Kashmir also invests in structured youth development, blending local prospects with experienced Indian and overseas players. A capable backroom staff supports the team. “Shore insists the factors that continue to hold the club back are beyond the club’s control. “We’re doing everything we can control,” he said, citing ownership stability, player commitment and grassroots development.