Indian Society: Head of Sports

I have had a passion and been playing sports since a very young age and currently at UCL I play football basically every day of the week. From this, I have developed great teamwork, leadership and organisational skills. Throughout my footballing life, I feel as if people have looked down on me because I am Indian and assumed I am just good at computers and maths and therefore underestimated my footballing ability. I have been extremely frustrated at this in the past, and I believe this is the perfect opportunity for me to do something about this to remove this stereotype and create a safe space. 

If elected, I would enter the Indian society into the UCL football society leagues (5/8/11 a-side dependent on interest from our members). I strongly feel this would benefit the community as I being a fresher looked highly to sports as an opportunity to socialise and make friends. Currently being a member of both UCLFC and UCL Futsal Club, I firsthand experience the feeling of community and spirit which team sport has to offer. However I can count on one hand the number of Indian footballers I have met, with the introduction of an Indian team, there will be more like-minded people who are similar to me, and thus there would be a greater bonding experience.

Away from football, I would use the Indian Soc Instagram to find out other sports there is interest in, and then potentially set up other teams. 

“Gold toh gold hota hai, chora lave ya chori” – Dangal

Indian culture is deeply rooted in sports, from celebrated athletes like Milkha Singh to local gully cricketers. As an Indian National Squash player, drawing from my extensive experience representing my school, state, and now UCL in squash, I aim to foster a spirit that is a blend of competition and fun.

Captaining my school and state’s squash team for 3 years has taught me perseverance, decision-making and adaptability. Critical times that demanded providing support to my team enhanced my leadership and hosting tournaments honed my organizational skills, crucial for this role.

Furthermore, I value the social aspect of sports, having formed lasting friendships with teammates and rivals alike. I aspire to promote the same through inter-society fixtures.

Having bought and broken many squash rackets myself, I understand the financial barriers to being a sportsperson as a student. Hence, I shall ensure that funds are efficiently allocated for equipment and guidance is provided for applicants to the participation fund.

Reflecting on the Referee workshop organized by the squash club, I believe conducting seminars for coaching, sports ethics, and nutrition could greatly benefit athletes and aid them in reaching their full potential.

Finally, I recognize the importance of transparency and accountability. I will operate with integrity, ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of the Indian society athletes.