WEI FANG (CHINA): The Indian U-16 Girls’ National Team landed in Wei Fang for the forthcoming AFC U-16 Qualifiers which kicks-off on Sunday (August 28). The girls travelled from Delhi via flights from Hong Kong and Ningbo province of China.
Looking ahead to the Championship where India have been clubbed with Korea Republic, Philippines, Malaysia and Northern Mariana Islands, the girls are drawing inspiration from the Medal winning performances of Indian women Athletes in the recently concluded Rio Olympics -- jousting in unison with a spirit of ‘if they can, we can.’
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“Making the Nation proud is a dream of any athlete or Footballer and the recent performances in the Olympics have shown us that Indian Women belong to the big stage,” says Soumya Guguloth in one breath while talking to www.the-aiff.com.
Perhaps Soumya, who leads the Indian attack force, talks surprisingly mature for her age. “(P.V) Sindhu-di and Sakshi-di are an inspiration for us and they motivate us to excel in whatever we do.”
While P.V Sindhu won the Silver medal in Women Singles Badminton, Sakshi Malik followed closely behind by earning a Bronze Medal in Women’s 58kg free-style wrestling in the recently concluded Rio Olympic 2016.
“(P.V) Sindhu-di is my biggest inspiration and I hope that I can score many goals to make the Nation proud, just as she did by winning the silver medal,” Soumya shyly adds and heads around her nod in agreement.
“But Dipa (Karmakar) di is my motivation,” Laxmita Reang’s voice distorts the pensive silence. “She has shown that hard work and determination reaps profit. It’s about making a mark and earning respect.”
“As I hail from Tripura, I feel more connected to Dipa-di,” smiles Laxmita.
The Indian girls face a stern Philippines challenge in their opening match of the AFC U-16 Qualifiers on August 28, 2016.
