Twelve-year-old Sahil Jinadani, a standard seven student from St Pius School in Mulund west appears like any other student who is fond of playing, dancing and watching movies. What makes him different from his peers is his love for the game of football. This football player recently represented Maharashtra state in the All India Football Federation (WIFF) tournament held at Jamshedpur from January 12-24.

Sahil was the only player from Vikhroli-Mulund to find a place in the state team in the under-13 category. His team won the first place in the tournament. When our team visited his school, this talented player was back in action at the school ground practicing with his coach Carlton Dsouza.

 

Talking about the finals played against Assam, Sahil states, “Assam team was very tough, most of the players in that team were well built. We lost the finals but considering the overall points, Maharashtra team was declared as winners. Our team secured 65 points in all the matches played followed by Manipur who secured 60 points. I normally play in the midfield or forward position but for this tournament I played defence. Most of the players in our team were from the western suburbs of Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra.”

 

Sahil’s favourite football hero remains Cristiano Ronaldo from Portugal. Needless to say, his favourite film is the Bollywood hit Dhan Dhana Dhana Dan Goal starring John Abhraham as it revolves around football. Talking about his future plan, Sahil declares that he wants to play for India.

 

Sahil’s coach, Carlton terms this budding player as livewire on the field. Talking about Sahil’s selection in the state team Carlton informs, “The selection for the state team is done by the officials from WIFF. Sahil also plays for Steadfast foundation at Bandra. He was spotted during the 20 day trial matches conducted by the foundation. The selection for the national team is scheduled to take place within two months and we hope Sahil makes it to the national team.”

 

Sahil’s parents, Harsha and Deepak, residents of Yogi Hill add, “ Sahil started playing football when he was studying in standard three. On Thursday, he plays at the school ground while on Sunday he attends the sessions conducted by Steadfast Foundation. He has also attended the special football camps held by the foundation in Goa.”

 

Making a mark in a team game like football is not an easy task because cricket is a popular game in our country but Sahil is determined to pursue his dream. “I am not very fond of cricket,” states this football fan. His parents attribute his success to the support he received from his school. “The WIFF matches clashed with his unit test but the school principal, Fr Clifton Lobo told him not to worry about the test. In fact, it was him who encouraged our son to go on and play the game,” discloses Harsha.

 

After the Maharashtra state team lifted the title, all the 17 players were invited to watch the exciting match played between two professional football teams, Air India and ONGC, at Cooperage Ground on Sunday, January 25. The winning team members were also felicitated on the occasion.