APF Club (Kathmandu) – The Sporting Spirit of Nepal’s Armed Police Force

Armed Police Force Club (APF Club), based in Kathmandu, Nepal, is a departmental football team that competes in the prestigious Martyr’s Memorial A-Division League. As a branch of the Armed Police Force of Nepal, the club is known for its discipline, athleticism, and growing ambition in Nepali football.

Overview

  • Full Name: Armed Police Force Club

  • Short Name: APF Club

  • Location: Halchowk, Kathmandu, Nepal

  • Founded: 2001

  • League: Martyr’s Memorial A-Division League

  • Home Ground: APF Stadium, Halchowk (also plays at Dasarath Stadium)

  • Club Colors: Red and Navy Blue

  • Major Focus: Developing athletes from within the Armed Police Force and contributing to Nepali football

History and Background

APF Club was officially established in 2001, shortly after the formation of the Armed Police Force of Nepal. The goal was to promote physical fitness, sportsmanship, and national pride among armed police personnel, while also contributing to the nation’s sporting landscape.

Key Historical Highlights

  • Quickly ascended to the top division in Nepali football

  • Became known for physical fitness and defensive strength

  • An important producer of national team players

Though they are a newer departmental team compared to Nepal Police Club and Tribhuvan Army FC, APF has carved a respectable niche.

Achievements

While APF Club has yet to win the Martyr’s Memorial A-Division League title, they have been consistent competitors:

 League Performance

  • Regular top-half finishes in the A-Division League

  • Known for pulling upsets against top-tier teams

  • Slowly building a squad capable of challenging for titles

Cup Competitions

  • Strong showings in the Budha Subba Gold Cup, Chief of Army Staff Cup, and Aaha! Rara Gold Cup

  • Occasional champions and frequent semi-finalists

Squad and Playing Style

APF Club emphasizes:

  • Defensive solidity and structured formations

  • High fitness levels typical of armed forces clubs

  • Quick counter-attacking football

Notable Players

Over the years, APF Club has nurtured talented players who have served both the club and the Nepal national team:

  • Nabin Neupane – Promising midfielder

  • Rabin Shrestha – Veteran defender and former national team player

  • Goalkeeper Hem Tamang – Known for his shot-stopping abilities

The club regularly recruits young athletes from across Nepal who are also inducted into the armed police force.

Coaching and Management

APF Club’s management structure mirrors the military discipline of the parent organization:

  • Coaches are often former players or certified sports trainers within the force

  • Focus on tactical discipline, fitness, and team cohesion

  • Encourages a professional and duty-bound attitude on and off the field

Club Identity and Philosophy

APF Club represents:

  • Service through sports

  • National pride and responsibility

  • Physical and mental toughness

Their dual role as law enforcers and athletes makes their ethos unique in Nepal’s football scene.

Community and Fanbase

APF Club’s fanbase includes:

  • Personnel and families from the Armed Police Force

  • Neutral football fans who appreciate disciplined team football

  • Growing urban supporters, especially in Kathmandu

While not as commercially focused as private clubs, their organizational support and institutional pride create a loyal and passionate backing.

Rivalries

APF Club has developed intense rivalries with other departmental teams:

  • Nepal Police Club – The classic law enforcement derby

  • Tribhuvan Army FC – Battle of military institutions

  • Machhindra FC and MMC – Competitive matches with private powerhouses

These matches often bring extra intensity and are crowd-pullers in the league.

Trivia

  • APF Club’s stadium at Halchowk is one of the most scenic grounds, located near the hills of Kathmandu Valley.

  • Players from APF are dual-trained — in armed forces duties and professional-level sports.

  • The club also participates in volleyball, athletics, and karate, making it a multi-sports powerhouse under the Armed Police Force umbrella.

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