Belles of the ball!

Rising against all odds, women in our city have taken to the beautiful game of football with aplomb. Inspite of the unsurmountable odds they have to face — insufficient funds, lack of on-the-ground support and training facilities, Bengaluru colleges have been major contributors to the success of young women who would do anything for the sport. Come 7 am, and these girls are on the field kicking up a storm. Footballers from namma ooru colleges tell us about their teams!

Mount Carmel College:
This all girls college team began in 2011. Their days begin with warm up exercises and ten rounds around the field at 7 am. Balancing their classes with practice and matches is difficult, but as Ateka, the team captain says, “We are sportswomen and we learn to deal with all of this”. As a team they love spending time together off the field as well “We love going for breakfasts after practice. Once you are part of the team you become a part of a family.” Carmelites had a major win last year when they won against Bangalore University!

Christ University:
This team has been on a winning streak since they were formed in 2012. As Aishwarya Vijaykumar, a team member says, “In the last two years we have won all major tournaments within the city.  We went to be a part of the Top eight in the South Zone. Interestingly, this team does not believe in captaincy. The coach picks a captain, just for the toss fifteen minutes before each game. Aishwarya says, “There is no hierarchy of senior or juniors within the team or a belief that one person has to lead the team. We are all the same and we share responsibilities!” Friendly matches, and matches within and outside the university ensures that these girls stay at the top of the game!

Jyoti Nivas College:
The girl’s football team in this college started as long ago as 1997. With two decades of football legacy intact, last year they went on to place third at the All India Football Tournament for girls in Chennai. Charishma VA a senior player says, “As a team we had so much fun together in Chennai and winning third position meant a lot to us”. The teachers are incredibly supportive of the players as Charishma says, “We are allowed to practice until 9 am even if classes start ahead. Our teachers do not mind helping us out with lessons past class hours”.

St. Joseph’s College of Commerce:
With 17 members comprising the team, the St Joseph’s girls have made their presence known in the state by representing their college at inter-university matches. Neha M, vice captain of the team says, “With each year passing year the teams grows. The selection that happens each year to recruit juniors brings in fresh talent to the team.” The team makes sure that they take a trip together once every year. Neha says, “We learn so much about each other especially when we go outside to play a match. “

These Bengaluru teams have made waves in the major league tournaments and are paving the path for more girls who love the sport!