BeyondBooks: ‘I owe my winning mindset to football’

Football has played a powerful role in shaping his personality, teaching him lessons far beyond physical fitness. Meet Atharv Raj Singh of Class IX, studying at Apeejay School, Greater Noida.  In a candid interview, he shared how through football, he has grown mentally, emotionally, and socially, becoming more confident, determined, and capable in all aspects of life.

Share your recent football achievements.

I have participated in several school-level matches and Inter-house tournaments where my team performed well. In the recent school football tournament, I won a silver medal as well. I have also taken part in friendly matches and regular practice sessions. These experiences helped me improve my skills, understand team strategies, and gain confidence on the field.

How did you pick up an interest in this sport?

My interest in football started at a young age when I used to watch matches on television and play with my friends in my society. Gradually, I started enjoying the game more and began practising seriously. With encouragement from my parents and teachers, I decided to pursue football as my main sport.

Who is your favourite player?

My biggest motivation is Cristiano Ronaldo, as he inspires me with his hard work, discipline, fitness, and never-give-up attitude. Along with him, my father motivates me a lot and always encourages me. My mother supports me by taking care of my diet. I am also deeply inspired by my coach, who is the most motivating teacher in my life. His guidance, training methods, and belief in me have helped me improve my skills and confidence. 

What position do you play at, and what are the challenges you face?

I mainly play as an attacker and forward, and I also take up the role of a midfielder whenever required. As an attacker, my responsibility is to create scoring opportunities, make quick runs, and help my team convert chances into goals. When I play as a midfielder, I focus on building the game. As a midfielder, I help in controlling the game, maintaining possession, and supporting both attack and defence. The major challenges I face while playing are maintaining stamina throughout the match, handling pressure from defenders, and making quick decisions in critical moments. I also work on improving my speed.

How did your school support you?

The school has played a very important role in supporting my journey in football. It provides excellent sports facilities, including a proper ground and specified hours for playing, which helps students maintain a good balance between academics and sports. Whenever my match schedules or practice sessions affect my studies, the school and teachers are very understanding and provide me with backup plans to help me cover my syllabus and manage my academic work.

How has this sport honed your personality?

Football has made me more confident, disciplined, and physically fit. It has taught me how to work in a team, take responsibility, and stay focused on my goals. Through regular practice and matches, I have learnt the value of time management, patience, and consistency. Football has also helped me develop mental strength by teaching me how to handle pressure, accept failures positively, and keep improving. Performing on the field has improved my decision-making skills and leadership qualities. 

Would you like to take up football as a profession?

Yes, I would definitely like to take up football as a profession in the future because it is my passion and something I genuinely enjoy. At the same time, I also believe in having a strong academic foundation. I also have very strong roots in Mathematics, and by focusing on studies, I want to keep my academic options open.