
When it comes to playing football in Mumbai, the city’s lack of space tends to become blatantly apparent. Besides the near impossible task of finding a big enough playing field, the constant quarrels with neighbors and not to mention a never ending battle against the heat and rain, it’s a test of will which we as kids, were determined to win.
The only motivation behind going to school most days was the promise of a games period scheduled somewhere in the near future. Even then, the difficulty of playing in school uniforms somewhat marred the happiness and competitiveness we reveled in during those periods. But as we started growing older, our once tireless efforts to dedicate all our time to football gave way to the harsh reality of adult responsibilities.
In fact today, to help satisfy our quest for the love that we have towards the game, we exploit our limited options of watching live matches or replaying past recordings on any available device and at every opportunity. Well, it’s time to change that sorry situation. Homegrown dug out nine fields across Mumbai equipped with features worthy of FIFA approved surfaces, and floodlights for those who can only spare time after the sun goes down.
From college going teens to hard working professionals, these options can help anyone and everyone get out of the house for once and rekindle their passion for the game. All you have to do now is to open up that old cardboard box, dust off those studs and stockings and hit the playing field!
I. Kick-Off
Location: Om Heera Panna Mall, Oshiwara, Jogeshwari (W)
Started by three young entrepreneurs who happened to be die-hard fans of the game as well, “Kick-Off” was one of the first AstroTurf grounds to have a FIFA-approved grass surface in the city. People of all age groups can also further learn and improve their game by enrolling in one of their many training programs.
Field Capacity: 5 per side.
Cost: 7am to 5pm, INR 1500 per hour. 5pm to 11pm, INR 2000 per hour.
Contact: 9820767123, 9819097603, or 9867052773
II. Astro Park
Location: Kamala Mills, Lower Parel and Atria Mall, Worli
An ideal space for five-a-side indoor matches, what makes Astro Park stand out is the fact that not only is it one of the earliest but also one of the last, in terms of opening and closing timings. Locker room facilities are also provided for players, making sure they only have to concentrate on the game and not on their belongings.
Field Capacity: 5 per side.
Cost: INR 3500 at Kamala Mills, 7am to 12am. INR 7000 at Atria Mall, 7am to 12am.
Contact: 8879229996
III. Kick
Location: Supreme Business Park, Powai
Being based in a business park has its perks and that’s exactly what three city boys are experiencing with their AstroTurf field “Kick”. From playing the game to getting trained by experts and participating in corporate tournaments, “Kick’ offers all. Another huge advantage which this arena holds is the fact that it is open past midnight. With two pitches providing five-a-side football matches, the place also offers a decent dug-out space for those who prefer to catch the action from the sidelines.
Field Capacity: 5 per side.
Cost: 7am to 6pm, INR 1800 per hour. 6pm to 1am, INR 2250 per hour.
Contact: 9819335701, 7798983354, 9920950517
IV. Dreamfields
Location: Inorbit Mall, Malad (W), plus six other locations.
The Granddaddy of the list, it would be hard to believe if football players across Mumbai have not heard of their name considering they run the maximum number of AstroTurf (total six) in the city. If that’s not all, what separates them from others is the fact that they offer the chance to play seven-a-side matches at certain outlets. Suitable for large groups, they should cost a bomb, right? Well, what will shock you is the fact that their day rates are the lowest across the city.
Field Capacity: 5 per side.
Cost: 6am to 12am, INR 2000 per hour.
Contact: 7666884422
Location: Hind Services Industrial Premises Co-op Society Ltd, Dadar
In business as a Sports Development Company, their mission is to target the grassroots level players by providing world class sports facilities and state of the art infrastructure. That is why their model ensures a holistic sports development program, making HotFut an ideal platform for sports development and education.
Field Capacity: 5 per side.
Cost: 8am to 5pm, INR 2500 per hour. 5.30pm to 11.30pm, INR 3000 per hour.
Contact: 75060 40353
VI. Goalster
Location: Thakur Shyam Narayan High School, Kandivali (E)
Having the motto “We provide a complete sports experience”, Goalster provides some of the finest FIFA approved turfs in Mumbai. Aware of the space crunch situation which acts as a hindrance towards the game in the city, Goalster looks into providing its services at affordable rates.
Field Capacity: 5 per side.
Cost: 6am to 10pm, INR 1500 per hour.
Contact: 099301 25903
VII. Urban Sports
Location: Swami Vivekanand International School & Junior College, Kandivali (W)
Providing one of the biggest playing fields in the city, Urban sports claims of having moved mountains to achieve their goal of creating a field capable of sporting both cricket and football at their venues. They state to have come up with a spectacular game plan to provide India’s youth something they lack- The ultimate stadium experience.
Not open till the evenings, what stands out is the fact that they are one of the cheapest in the city when it comes to night rates.
Field Capacity: 5 per side.
Cost: 6pm to 12am, INR 1000 per hour.
Contact: 099699 41234
VIII. St.Andrews Turf Park
Location: St. Andrews School Ground, Bandra (W)
Targeting all age groups, St. Andrews looks to tick all boxes when it comes to any problems that one might face when it comes to playing at a Turf Park for an hourly basis. From flood lights, seating arrangements, dugouts, ample parking, washrooms and changing rooms, they seem to have everything covered.
Their football pitches can also be converted into providing a quick game of box cricket or hockey, making them a front runner to potentially have the maximum audience reach.
Field Capacity: 5 per side.
Cost: 4pm to 11pm, INR 3000 per hour.
Contact: 7506901999
Location: Near Erangal Bus Stop, Malad West
Organizing soccer/cricket leagues, social weekly bookings, corporate events and formal football/cricket coaching makes Passion United Astro Field one of the best floodlit AstroTurf sporting facilities.
With their unique synthetic grass design and additional shock pad for player comfort, what helps paint the complete picture is the fact that they are completely covered with roof nets and side nets, making sure there is no chasing after footballs.
Field Capacity: Five per side.
Cost: 12pm to 11.30pm, INR 1500 per hour.
Contact: 9820087029