It has been a very hectic and happening summer break but like every time, there was so much fun as well. I visited Rajnandgaon for a week; however, this time things were so much more exciting thanks to Ms. Te’onna Campbell (basketball coach of LA clippers) and Mr. Nair (professional scout from Australia). I actually couldn’t believe them shortlisting 3 girls to take with them to the US.
It’s great that these girls might actually get the chance of attending prestigious colleges on the basis of their game. However, as expected, the shortlisted girls (Nisha, Preeti, and Shanti) were the best of the talent. They have bought laurels to India at international platforms including places like Russia, Glasgow, Romania, etc.
I was talking to these professionals and was not surprised to hear them gush about these dedicated and resilient girls who not only managed to impress them with their advanced skills but also with their ability to comprehend instructions so quickly. This news was so exciting that I just knew deep down that if they finalize the decision to take these girls abroad, I would go to any limit to arrange the required cost of travel and accommodation.
All of us would be on the court by 6 in the morning while I would help the new batch of girls recruited from various districts (including Sarguja, Quondagaon, Ambikapur, etc.) with the basic drills whereas Te’onna would coach the advanced lot. Within fifteen minutes all of us would be sweating.
Being with these renowned coaches and professionals was proved to be very enriching for me as well. I would try to observe some of the advanced techniques and drills that Te’onna instructed to the girls.
After every tiring day, Mr. Nair would keep a fun and games session. It was like a ritual. I remember all of the girls (including me) eagerly waiting for sir to blow that whistle and summon us to explain that day’s fun activity.
Precisely, this camp was full of learning, exploring and moving ahead as an athlete and human as well.
Punjab Kesari, Daily Hindi, 27/11/2018
