President
Vasant Kulkarni
The visionary founder who started coaching underprivileged children in 2006.
View profileEst. 2006 · Pune
The making of
the club
“Pune's U.K.M. Kothrud Football Club is a great example of the unity and dedication of the players. While learning about this club, its uniqueness continues to be felt.”
Heritage
From humble beginnings to champions
UKM Kothrud F.C. was founded in 2011by the merger of two local teams - Utkarsh Krida Manch and Panthers F.C. The club's roots go back to 2006, when Vasant Kulkarni, our president, began coaching underprivileged children from Karve Nagar who loved football.
He registered them with the Pune District Football Association and gave them a platform to compete and grow. He later joined forces with Ashok Dhore and Rushikesh Dorge from Panthers F.C., who shared his vision of nurturing young talent.
Today, more than 200 members train at Bharati University grounds in Kothrud - with Kulkarni Kaka, in his late 70s, present to guide and motivate, rain or shine.
Vasant Kulkarni
Founder & President
18+
Years
250+
Players
45+
Trophies
Principles
What we stand for
Passion
Love for the beautiful game drives everything we do.
Excellence
Striving to be the best on and off the field.
Integrity
Fair play, respect for opponents, and honour in every match.
Community
A family that supports each other on and off the pitch.
Timeline
Key milestones
2006
The beginning
Vasant Kulkarni starts coaching underprivileged children in Karve Nagar.
2011
UKM founded
Merger of Utkarsh Krida Manch and Panthers F.C. creates UKM Kothrud F.C.
2015
PDFA recognition
Official registration with Pune District Football Association.
2020
Girls division
Launch of a dedicated girls football programme.
2024
Super Division
PDFA Super Division champions - a landmark for the club.
Governance
Management team
The people steering the club's vision - from the boardroom to the academy pitch.
250+
Active players
45+
Trophies won
18+
Years of excellence
5
Training centres
