Arunava about Football A look at football & the world through my eyes!
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In the realm of Indian football, Thongkhosiem Haokip, affectionately known as Semboi, stands as a dynamic force on the field, leaving an indelible mark with his skill and flair. Representing Jamshedpur FC, Semboi has become a stalwart in the sport, boasting a commendable 62 appearances across multiple seasons. However, it was in the I-League 2014-15 season that Semboi’s prowess not only caught the eyes of fans and coaches but also earned him the prestigious Football Players Association of India (FPAI) ‘Best Young Player of the Season’ award.
Semboi’s journey to the FPAI Young Player of the Season award began during the 2014-15 I-League season, where he showcased his goal-scoring prowess while playing for Pune FC. In this season, Semboi not only emerged as the highest Indian goal-scorer with an impressive seven goals from 18 appearances but also etched his name in the history books with a memorable hat-trick against Shillong Lajong FC. His stellar performance did not go unnoticed, and the football fraternity recognized his outstanding contribution to the sport.
The pinnacle of Semboi’s achievements during the 2014-15 season came with the prestigious FPAI Young Player of the Season award. His creative flair, goal-scoring ability, and overall impact on the field garnered more votes than other standout players, including Pritam Kotal, Sandesh Jhingan, Jayesh Rane, and Udanta Singh. Semboi’s humility and genuine surprise at receiving the award highlight the passion and dedication he brings to the game.
In Semboi’s own words, “At that time, I never thought that I would get this recognition. Because, as a player, when you are awarded, you just want to feel it. But I never thought that I would get it.” This candid expression of surprise speaks volumes about Semboi’s modesty and genuine love for the game. He went on to express his gratitude, saying, “I thank all my teammates, whom I played before and the coach. It was a great memory for me.”
Semboi’s journey to becoming the FPAI Young Player of the Season serves as an inspiration for aspiring footballers across the country. His commitment, skill, and humility have not only earned him accolades but have also solidified his status as a rising star in Indian football. As he continues to weave his magic on the field with Jamshedpur FC, Semboi remains a beacon of hope for young talents, proving that with hard work, dedication, and a genuine love for the beautiful game, one can rise to greatness in the world of football. The FPAI Young Player of the Season award is just one milestone in what promises to be an illustrious career for this Manipuri maestro.
