ashwin doke

a year ago

TSP Ultras Profile - Allen George (The heartbeat of Amara Football)

Meet Allen George, a man whose passion for football is as vibrant as the community he has helped to build at Lodha Amara. To say that Allen is the lifeblood of our football scene might seem like an exaggeration, but those who know him understand that it's simply the truth. As one of the original pioneers of our football community, Allen has tirelessly nurtured the sport's culture here, ensuring that it thrives and grows.

At 38, Allen is not only a successful professional at Microsoft but also a devoted husband and an even more remarkable father to his daughter. His ability to juggle these roles while fostering a football community is nothing short of inspiring.

Building a community takes more than just shared interests; it requires dedication, vision, and a touch of magic—qualities Allen possesses in abundance. Over the past four years, he has not only brought people together but has also maintained a sense of camaraderie among players ranging from 15 to 52 years old. Allen's leadership has kept divisive politics at bay and ensured that everyone plays as one cohesive group.

Allen's commitment extends beyond the field. He navigates administrative challenges with finesse, ensuring that our football ground remains dedicated to the sport, much like the iconic scene in "Chak De! India.", where the ground is used for non-hockey events. Attempts happen for our ground too. His efforts in securing approvals and organizing resources like footballs, bibs, cones, and even small goalposts have significantly enhanced our playing experience.

Under the floodlights of our 11v11 turf, evening games buzz with an intensity reminiscent of the EPL. Thanks to Allen's guidance, players, especially the younger ones, continually improve their skills. Despite knowing that teenagers might not always welcome feedback, Allen remains steadfast in his belief that his feedback can make a difference.

Allen's true gift lies in his ability to unite people. For many of us, football is a stress reliever, a fitness booster, and a cherished opportunity to connect with friends. It's Allen and a few others like him who keep the spirit of football at Lodha Amara alive and thriving, laying a solid foundation for future growth.

The Thane Soccer Prodigies (TSP) is a testament to Allen's dedication over the past four years.

Although he has chosen not to take an official role in TSP due to work and family commitments, his influence is felt in every aspect of the club's success.

Of course, Allen isn't without his quirks. As a Manchester United fan, he occasionally needs a supportive hug from us. His enthusiasm sometimes earns him the unofficial title of referee, as he passionately calls for fouls and free kicks in favor of his team during our evening matches.

While we might tease him and not always agree with his calls, we owe much of our football joy to Allen. But let's keep that between us—we wouldn't want it to go to his head!

Connect with Allen

LinkedIn

Instagram - Personal

Ingragram - Amara FC

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