There’s no easy road to the top. Meeting these promising young sportspersons from our region also revealed that family, not institutional support, has been key to their success. But there are still miles to go. Are our Sports Departments listening?
Muhammad Ali, legendary heavyweight champion, known for his unusual wit and great generosity is among the best who exemplify the power a sportsperson can wield. He was not only a world champion in his chosen sport, but also an inspiring figure who influenced generations as he stood up for Black rights, protested against war and deprivation, and commanded an audience with the best and the brightest. He had the unconditional love of millions of fans and used his influence for the betterment of the human race. Closer home, Mary Kom through her boxing academy in Imphal is nurturing young boxers and giving them opportunities she never had access to.
Sportspersons, whichever discipline they choose, are also a glimmer of unifying hope in a nation divided along religious and class lines; no one cares about Sania Mirza’s religion or Mary Kom’s humble beginnings. What matters is that they represent us, a country of 1.25 billion plus people, realize some of our hopes and aspirations and by their successes, unite us as a nation. Of course, jingoistic nationalism in cricket can’t be taken too seriously but when you come across young sportspersons like Shiva Thapa from a State like Assam receiving a rousing welcome by Indians in cities like London and Beijing, it restores your faith in Indian nationalism which is a beautiful and inclusive idea. Sports, thus, can be the one thing that unites us when everything else fails.
PRIYANA KALITA
Lawn Tennis
Priyana’s parents enrolled her for tennis classes at the age of 10 to keep her fit and healthy. ‘The intention was never to become a professional tennis player. However, as I kept playing, my coaches saw the potential in me and so I started playing professionally. It happened very naturally,’ shares the 17-year-old player.
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