KOLHAPUR: The Oxford dictionary defines the word momentum as ‘the ability to keep increasing or developing’ and in order for anything to grow or improve, it is of paramount importance to generate a good swing of momentum and capitalise on it.
Women’s football in India has seen a recent upsurge in the last few months thanks to the performances of the women’s senior national team under coach Maymol Rocky and with the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup to be held in India next year, Maymol feels that hosting and playing in the biennial contest is the perfect step to build upon the impetus generated so far.
“It’s an opportunity to play at the highest level for the young players and being a part of it all will be an experience they will enjoy and remember forever. I have always been one to place my faith in the abilities of youngsters and this tournament will be vital in rearing the next generation,” she exclaimed.
The tactician talked about how the World Cup will “bring the entire nation together”, saying, “We have seen what happened in 2017 during the U-17 World Cup. The whole country will come together for football and young children and parents will be motivated to get more involved in the sport.”
She added: “We have a good amount of time to plan and the players have the potential to shine. We need to give the coach time and believe in the team. I believe we can put together a strong team and I am excited to watch them play soon - as everyone else will be too!”
Maymol has vast amount of experience when it comes to coaching age group teams. Since 2012, she has led the India U-15 and U-16 teams before taking up the senior team position. Currently in Kolhapur for the Junior Girls’ NFC, she is among multiple scouts responsible for identifying potential talents.
