Seven years ago, when the Ultimate Frisbee Championship, Chennai Heat, came to the city, it left the crowd awe-struck at the grace and agility of the players, who sprung from their positions to catch a flying Frisbee disk in the air. The crowd was abuzz with admiration for these men as it sent one single message out to everyone: there’s more than just one sport. The Under 20 Team India Junior Frisbee team is all set to have their big game in Poland in August. But there is one hurdle left for them to cross — they lack sponsors. These boys belong to less privileged families across India and this could be their biggest breakthrough seeing their success over the past months. They have been the crowning champions of a number of matches and have qualified to be part of the Ultimate World Championship in Poland. These boys come from different cities and towns like Delhi, Surat, Goa, Auroville, Pune and Chennai.
“This is the first time we are sending under-20 boys to world championships,” says Pooja Damodaren, manager of the team. With five coaches giving their best in training these lads, the team has been through hardships of all kinds — from finding a proper arena to practice, to convincing their parents about the sport. “These boys have played against clubs and sub-teams in India, taking help from seniors and mentors as Frisbee, in ways, is a self-referee game. It is a great way to enhance one’s body control, discipline and instill manners. It also develops strong sportsmanship amongst the players. Unfortunately, it has not been getting as much attention as the other sports do,” she adds. The U-20 Junior team’s Facebook page has been sharing posts regularly calling out for sponsors.
India has been witnessing the potential reach of different sports over the past years. If given the right direction and guidance, these teams can make our homeland proud. “If we get the funds, I am sure we can reach greater heights. I think we’re fully prepared for it. The bonding we share in the team is very special,” says Gurumurthy Anbalagan, captain of the team. This journey has been very transformative for the boys as they hope to make it across the borders and do us proud. They are young and aspiring to make a difference, which they will achieve if they are efficiently funded. “More than talent, it’s the respect that guides us,” adds Sangamitra Rajendar, assistant coach.
