Breakaway, centre forward, crossbar, freekick, inswinger, linesman, nutmeg, reserves....Can you connect these words? Well, if you are Nathania John K or a football fan, you would.
Nathania has just returned from St. Petersburg in Russia. She was a Ball Carrier for the Brazil vs Costa Rica match played on June 22.
How did she get there? She answered an advertisement for India’s first Official Match Ball Carrier competition for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. She shot a video showcasing her skills on field and sent it to Kia Motors, the official automotive partner of FIFA.
There were 1600 applicants, of which 50 were shortlisted for an on-site selection process based on their football skills, agility, attitude and teamwork. Nathania was the only girl among the 50 and she topped the group.
“After a brief rehearsal in the stadium, we were asked to spend time in the recreation room. The room had foosball tables, a television and a playstation to keep busy till we we asked to assemble. The best moments were waiting at the Tunnel, the players shaking my hand, meeting and talking to Neymar, Paulinho, Philippe Coutinho and the team, giving the ball to the referee and watching the match live in action...everything was special,” says Nathania reliving her experience.
Her interest and love for the sport began when she was three. From playing with friends to watching matches, she grew to love it even more. What drew her to her school Rishi Valley was that it encouraged football for girls. She joined the football club in school. “I have watched all the club, international and league matches. YouTube videos and the Unisports website are what I rely on for information and entertainment. Match reviews, the balls, boots and highlights are what helped my love transform into passion,” says Nathania.
Taking sides
Nathania has a special place for Argentinian player Lionel Messi. Other than being her favourite, she says he is what one would call a perfect player. “I have made 17 scrapbooks all dedicated to the player I love. Every clipping I find on him is in there, and I continue to maintain and update it,” she says.
She joined the school team when she was in Std VI and has played two matches so far and even scored her début goal against Anantapur. Her parents are well aware of her passion for the game and have encouraged her by enrolling her for football summer camps.
“My experience in Russia is unforgettable. From white nights which is a phenomenon wherein the sun does not set for three weeks, visiting the Peterhof Palace and playing football in its garden, to touring one of the best museums Grand Market Rossiya, which has the whole of Russia in a 3D visual....it was amazing,” adds Nathania.
Back from Russia, she’s still glued to the television watching the rest of the matches and hoping her favourite player and team will win the World Cup!
