Page 62 - Tata-Trusts-Annual-Report-2022-23

Fielding Lalhruailena’s

true potential
EMPOWERMENT

When football teaches you
how to win in life.

The story of Lalhruailena from Zawlnuam village, Mamit He was coached by Mr. Kaleba Lalbiaknunga at the football
district, Mizoram, exemplifies how sports can have the power academy. Mr. Lalbiaknunga counselled and mentored him on
to transform lives. At merely 13 years of age, Lalhruailena had various aspects of football, which also translated into life
a troublesome family life. He wasn’t doing well in school and skills. He taught him various ways to improve focus, stay on
fell prey to bad company who were into substance abuse, course and stay away from distractions. Lalhruailena started
smoking, drinking, and the occasional pilfering. His parents performing so well on the field that he even represented the
were concerned about him and his future. They wanted him academy at the Local Football League in the Mamit District
to have a positive direction in his life. In April 2022, Tata Football Association Age Group Tournaments.
Trusts initiated the Grassroots Football project in
Lalhruailena’s village. Lalhruailena’s parents enrolled him at a “Training at the football academy turned around
local football academy as he liked playing football, and this Lalhruailena’s life and brought about a considerable
would also keep him away from bad company. After joining di erence in his character and nature. His parents’
the academy, Lalhruailena started honing his skills and happiness knew no bounds.” shares Mr. Lalbiaknunga
developed a passion for the sport. (Lalhruailena’s coach).

Gradually, he overcame his temptations for tobacco
and drugs. His parents testified that Lalhruailena’s
conduct at home improved significantly. He had
started attending the Church’s Sunday School
and even helped his mother with household
chores. His focus improved considerably and his
commitment to his studies increased. As a result,
he began doing well in school and his grades
began to improve. “He spent more time on the
football field – practising and less time with his
wayward friends. We were seeing a very di erent
Lalhruailena. he found a new direction in his life”,
they said.

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