Rajasthan United FC: From College Dreams to Desert Warriors – Dr (HC) Prachetan Potadar

In a land better known for its palaces and deserts than for football, an extraordinary story has taken root. Rajasthan United Football Club (RUFC) embodies passion, perseverance, and the underdog spirit that refused to be ignored.

How a Group of Engineering Students Changed Rajasthan Football Forever

Imagine a young student in Jaipur, far from India’s football hubs, staring at barren grounds and wondering if football could ever thrive in Rajasthan. That student was Kamal Singh Saroha. In 2014, fresh at Jaipur Engineering College and Research Centre (JECRC), Kamal noticed something striking—his college had no football team, a place bustling with youthful energy but lacking a shared football culture.

He decided to change that. Slowly, Kamal gathered friends and fellow football enthusiasts to form a team. What began as informal matches soon grew into something bigger. They named it JECRC CF—a tight-knit group of passionate students with big dreams. Yet, the road ahead was far from easy. Rajasthan wasn’t a known footballing state; cricket ruled. There were barely any dedicated football fields, no financial backing, and no structured leagues.

Still, four years later, something remarkable happened.

The Unexpected Entry: Making Waves in the State League

In 2019, JECRC CF received a surprise invitation to compete in the Rajasthan State Men's League (R-League A Division). They weren’t invited for fame or reputation—it was out of necessity, to fill numbers in the tournament. For a college team with minimal resources, it was both a golden chance and a daunting leap.

What followed shocked everyone.

JECRC CF, with spirited young players and a coach determined to prove a point, fought fiercely—and won the league. They weren’t just participants; they were champions. Against more established teams, these students showcased grit, teamwork, and hunger that could not be matched.

This victory did more than give them a trophy—it ignited dreams across Rajasthan, whispering that football could belong in the desert.

From JECRC CF to Rajasthan United: A New Chapter

Inspired by their success, in 2020, JECRC CF transformed into Rajasthan United FC. Kamal brought in co-founders—entrepreneur Rajat Mishra and footballer Swapnil Dhaka—blending business sense with sporting passion.

Together, they realised growth required structure and vision. They partnered with Witty International School in Bhilwara to launch a residential football academy, where young talent could train seriously while receiving education and care. The academy later achieved ‘elite’ status from the AIFF, a milestone for any emerging club.

RUFC also expanded scouting, gradually building a team combining local youth with seasoned professionals. The dream was clear: this club wasn’t just about Jaipur or Rajasthan—it aimed to make a national mark.

The Defining Moment: 2021 I-League Qualifiers

In 2021, Rajasthan United entered the Hero I-League Qualifiers in Bangalore, competing against eight hungry teams fighting for promotion to India’s professional I-League.

Observers counted RUFC out—they were underdogs in every sense. Yet, what unfolded was storybook-worthy.

RUFC played eight matches, remaining undefeated. Key victories included a breathtaking 3-2 win over Ryntih SC, while crucial draws kept their unbeaten streak alive. The final hurdle: a tense match against Kenkre FC, which they only needed to avoid losing to secure promotion.

Goalkeeper Vishal Joon, who had struggled earlier, became a hero with vital saves. Fans held their breath as the game ended 0-0, securing the first-ever I-League spot for a Rajasthan club.

Local midfielder Yash Chikro captured the moment:

"This isn’t just a win on paper. It’s a story of belief, humbling beginnings, and the power of teamwork. We made history for Rajasthan football."

The I-League Debut: Learning on the Big Stage

RUFC’s first I-League match on 26 December 2021 was a challenge. Playing with only nine registered players against seasoned RoundGlass Punjab, they lost 2-0. Yet, the setback fueled the team’s resolve.

Under Spanish coach Francesc Bonet, RUFC grew tactically and mentally, finishing their maiden I-League season sixth, a commendable achievement for a club still building its foundation. They also signed Argentine former La Liga player Mauro dos Santos, adding experience and skill.

Giant Killers and Cup Glory

RUFC’s giant-killing reputation shone in the 2022 Durand Cup, India’s historic football tournament. The desert warriors stunned ATK Mohun Bagan, one of India’s richest clubs, with a thrilling 3-2 victory. Though they exited in the quarterfinals, the win resonated nationwide, proving RUFC belonged on the big stage.

Later that year, the club won the Baji Rout Cup, defeating Churchill Brothers on penalties—further proof that Rajasthan United’s rise was no flash in the pan.

Building a Football Identity and Inspiring a State

RUFC’s story is about more than football—it’s about identity. Their crest proudly features Maharana Pratap, linking the team to Rajasthan’s heritage.

With each win, fan bases in Jaipur and beyond have grown louder and more passionate. Many locals see RUFC as a symbol of hope—a sign that Rajasthan youth can chase dreams once thought impossible.

Fan Rekha Sharma says:

"For us, RUFC isn’t just a team—it’s family. It shows our youth what’s possible with hard work and heart."

Looking Ahead: Dreams Beyond the Desert

From a college team to a national contender, Rajasthan United FC continues to inspire across India. With a focus on infrastructure, youth development, and community engagement, the club is shaping Rajasthan into a football powerhouse.

One thing is clear: RUFC has rewritten the map, proving that humble beginnings can create magnificent stories.

References:

Rajasthan United FC - Wikipedia

“Engineer builds a football club: Rajasthan United’s rise,” The Indian Express, 2021

Hero I-League Qualifiers 2021 official results, AIFF

Rajasthan United FC coverage, Durand Cup 2022, AIFF

Times of India sports features, 2024–25

About the Author

Dr. (HC) Prachetan Potadar—known as PenPaperPrachetan—, also founder of Stay Featured, is a celebrated media strategist and visionary writer. With honorary doctorates in Media Management, he has advised agencies, startups, NGOs, and cultural leaders on creating inclusive narratives worldwide. His work seamlessly blends strategy with empathy, particularly in the areas of disability inclusion and gender equity. A passionate footballer (jersey #24), his storytelling carries the spirit of play, teamwork, and resilience. As a sought-after speaker and TEDx advisor, he has inspired audiences from the G20 Educational Summit to UN-aligned SDG platforms, bringing wit, warmth, and wisdom to every stage.