Shillong, June 24: What started as a childhood passion in a small village in Meghalaya has now become a major step towards a national football career for 15-year-old Mefy Naki Nongrum of Mawpdang.
Nongrum has been selected for the prestigious AIFF FIFA Talent Academy, an achievement that has brought pride to her family, village and the football community in Meghalaya.
To honour her achievement, the Dorbar Shnong Mawpdang and Mawpdang Sports organised a felicitation programme on Wednesday. Head coach of the PFR Football Academy, Jeffery S Massar and the Principal of St. Francis D’Assisi School, Mawkasiang, Fr Sebastian Turky where the young footballer studies in Class IX, were also present.
For the young woman footballer, the selection is another step towards her biggest dream.
“My dream is to represent India. Now I have to work harder and improve myself so that one day I can play for my country,” she said.
A right-back by position, she has already represented Meghalaya in national tournaments and has played in several competitions across the state, including the Women’s Football League organised by the Shillong Sports Association.
Her football journey began when she was just five years old. Encouraged by her family, she took part in a Baby League tournament in Mawpdang, an experience that sparked her love for the sport.
“That was where everything started. I enjoyed playing football and gradually decided that I wanted to make it my career,” she said.
From local tournaments, Nongrum moved on to play for Rangdajied United FC before joining the PFR Football Academy, where she continued to develop her game.
Getting into the AIFF FIFA Talent Academy was not easy. She first attended AIFF trials held in Shillong and later travelled to Hyderabad for the final round of selection.
“There were many challenges along the way, but I never gave up. I was selected in Shillong and then again in Hyderabad. I am very happy to have been chosen for the academy,” she said.
The young woman footballer believes football has helped her become a more disciplined and confident person.
“Football has improved my fitness and taught me discipline. I would tell young footballers to keep working hard, never give up and always believe in their dreams,” she added.
Her mother, Banisha Nongrum, said that her daughter interest in football was visible from a very young age.
“She loved football when she was a child. We saw her interest and decided to support her,” Banisha recalled.
As her skills developed, the family ensured she received proper training and opportunities to compete. Her journey took her through different academies before she eventually joined the PFR Football Academy.
“We are very happy and proud as parents. Her hard work has paid off,” Banisha said.
She also encouraged parents to support their children’s talents and interests.
“Parents should motivate their children and allow them to pursue their talents, whether in sports or any other field,” she said.
