Passion leads to commitment.

Passion leads to commitment.

I still remember those days again late at home, my mom saying “what’s there in the game 22 players running behind a single ball”. But if you will about that to me I will say “If there is anything important in my life that’s football, its not about passing, its not about dribbling, its not about scoring goals; its about touching the sky for a moment, I believe that there’s life in that 6 inch diameter, it is in my DNA, feel the fever of the crowd and hear the roar of the people. It’s not just a game its life”.

I started my carrier as a defensive midfielder or in a much better way as a player who never even used to wear shoes and only knowing that we have to kick the ball and get it past the goalkeeper into the net. It was very hurting those days to play with the senior players. They never used to pass the ball and forced me to clear the ball whenever I got a pass. But I can’t ignore the fact that they taught me more than anyone in this world. I started learning the game quickly and soon realized my position as a right back. I used to practice a lot and started following the game and many players. I was so dedicated that I gradually changed my hairstyle, dressing style and many other things.

I started playing at higher levels by participating in many major tournaments. I was happy with my performance and the situation but all this things was regarding my game. But I needed to sacrifice and face different problems. I have to bunk my lectures and go for practice. I have to fight with my parents for bunking and most importantly I can’t even call her sometimes but still I went for almost all practice sessions. And finally at the time of match I found myself nowhere in the squad. I asked the reason why?????? They said you are not yet ready for the match. Imagine after bearing so much of problems I am out. I found may other players who were not that deserving playing in my position. That gave a pinch to me and at that moment I decided that I want to be the permanent right back of the team.

And now after 8 long months I became the captain of Birla College and became the first choice right back for my home team (KEFC). I never wanted to make football as a profession as this is a neglected game in India; but still believe that life rocks in that 6 inch diameter.

I can understand that if this is the condition of a tiny player like me then what about other big stars, it is easy to say I play football but practically it should be I struggle to play football in such a cricket oriented country.

- Bibin Alexander