Arunava about Football A look at football & the world through my eyes!
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Thongkhosiem Haokip, popularly called Semboi, a Manipuri forward for Jamshedpur FC, is a seasoned player with an impressive record of 62 appearances in various seasons. He contributes significantly to Scott Cooper’s team, providing creativity and serving as a reliable substitute in the attacking lineup.
For Semboi, football is not just a sport but a collection of cherished moments and dreams realized. In this article, we delve into Semboi’s early football memories and the transformative journey that took him from the village level to professional football, representing not only Manipur but also making a mark on the national stage.
Semboi fondly recalls the days when football was a simple joy, played in the dusty fields of his village. He remarks, “I have lots of good memories in football. Yes, I love football. I cannot point out any other thing that I love more than football.” These were the formative years when dreams were born amidst the laughter and camaraderie of playing in the village-level tournaments.
One of the pivotal moments in Semboi’s early career was his selection for the National School Games for the U-17 Manipur team. At that time, the concept of professional leagues like the I-League and ISL was distant; the focus was on representing the state. Recalling the journey, Semboi says, “We went for the state-level championship to get selected for the state team, and to put Manipur’s jersey on my back. All those were like old dreams.” The pride of wearing Manipur’s jersey became a driving force for Semboi.
During those early years, the concept of national leagues like the I-League and ISL was beyond the imagination of young players like Semboi. The dreams were simpler – to represent Manipur. Semboi reminisces, “We didn’t know, so we were still kids. We wanted to represent Manipur.” Little did they know that their dreams would transcend state borders and take them to uncharted territories in the professional football landscape.
The turning point in Semboi’s journey came when he received the call to join a professional club outside Manipur. Reflecting on this momentous occasion, Semboi states, “When I got selected in Pune is one of my great memories. Because it’s my first time to go outside Manipur and join a club.” This marked a significant step for Semboi as he transitioned from the familiar landscapes of Manipur to the challenges and opportunities awaiting him in the professional arena.
Semboi’s football journey is a testament to the power of dreams and the transformative nature of the sport. From the simplicity of village-level football to the grandeur of representing Manipur in national tournaments and joining a professional club in Pune, Semboi’s story is one of resilience, passion, and the pursuit of dreams. As he continues to carve his path in the world of football, Semboi remains a source of inspiration for aspiring players, proving that dreams, no matter how humble they start, can take you to places beyond your imagination.
