Aditi Chauhan, a couple of months back, became the first Indian woman to play in an English football league when she signed up for West Ham United, and since then, it has been a beginning of new life for her.
Talking to IBNLive, Aditi described how her life has transformed after moving to the United Kingdom and what difference does it make to an Indian footballer training at far better facilities in Europe, though she remains optimistic that Indian football will improve in the future and that AIFF is doing a good job and in future Indian football will see better results.
With women's football not that popular in India - what made you choose football as your sport and subsequently turn it into profession?
As a child, I was always into sports. I chose football because I really enjoyed playing it and slowly I realised that I am good at this sport and can excel in it. After my graduation I realised that sports in the way forward for me and I would love to have a career in sports in the long run too. That's how I decided to do Masters in Sports Management.
Was your family supportive of your decision when you told them that you wanted to be a footballer?
Initially when I decided to play football, my dad was a little apprehensive but gradually when he saw me play and saw my passion towards the sport, he and my family supported me completely in every way.
What has been your biggest challenge since you moved to England to play for West Ham, in terms of lifestyle and in terms of adapting to the English game?
Everything was a challenge initially - moving to a new country, living and managing everything on my own. But I knew what my purpose of coming to England was and that focus helped me overcome all the challenges and adapt accordingly. The level of football was very high even at the university level but that was good for me to grow as a footballer and develop my game.
How did the West Ham opportunity fell in your lap?
After I completed my university, I got a job at Decathlon and moved to London. I wanted to continue playing football and gave trials for Women's Super League club Millwall, but I was told by the manager of the club that FA rules do not allow me to play for a Super League club with a student visa. The goalkeeper coach of Milwall ladies team is also the goalkeeper coach of West Ham, so he suggested me to try for them as they were looking for a goalkeeper. I played one friendly game for them before I signed the contract.
Who has been your role model in sports - your favourite player and the club?
I don't follow any club as such but I like Manuekl Neuer and Lionel Messi.
What do you think needs to be done to improve the standard of Indian football?
There are a lot of initiatives being taken by AIFF and by private companies. There's a growing interest from all over the world in India. Hopefully all this will help improve the standard.
What are your views on the cash rich Indian Super League (ISL) and will that really help Indian football in future?
I have not been able to follow ISL very closely but I hope it can help Indian football grow positively.
What do you want to suggest to the upcoming girls and boys who wants to take football as their profession in India?
I would just say follow your passion and opportunities will follow, because I believe hard work always pays of in one way or the other.
Could you tell us about your schedule - training and match preparation?
West Ham ladies train twice a week and play matches once or twice depending on the fixtures and cup games.
Where do you see yourself five years down the line and what would be your dream move after Hammers?
I will keep working hard to improve as a goalkeeper and would love to play at higher division in England or maybe play in the USA in future.
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