‘Handball will always hold a special place in my life’

Myra was in Class 4 when she first picked up a handball, and the curiosity stuck. Years later, the Class 12 student at Apeejay School, Kharghar, has played in three European countries and, most recently, at the DSO Handball Tournament. She spoke to us about what she loves about the game, a match that tested her team’s confidence, and how she has balanced sport and studies.

What do you enjoy most about handball, and what are your biggest strengths as a player?

I enjoy the mix of teamwork, strategy and the fast pace of the game. Every second matters, and players have to communicate and coordinate well to achieve their goals. I consider determination, adaptability, quick decision-making and teamwork to be my biggest strengths. I have always believed in giving my best on the court, staying focused in difficult moments and supporting my teammates whenever they need it.

How was your experience at the DSO Handball Tournament?

It was quite exciting. I hadn’t practised much for it, so I couldn’t perform my best that day. But my team was superb at coordination and teamwork, and that pushed us further.

What was the most challenging moment, and what did you learn from it?

The toughest moment came when our opponents were ahead of us. Our morale dipped and it shook our confidence, so we weren’t able to play our best. But we learnt from it. In a fast-paced sport like handball, you have to maintain your momentum, because that is what decides wins and losses.

What role have your coaches played in your journey?

Our coaches have always supported us fully and given us top opportunities. Their continuous guidance has taken me to all the titles I have won in my school life through handball. It goes beyond sport: they have also taught me sportsmanship, discipline and commitment.

How do you balance academics and sports?

I have balanced both throughout my school life, though it hasn’t always been easy. Now that I am in Class 12, I give more priority to academics. I am on my way to pursuing CA. I believe the lessons sport has taught me over the years will stay valuable whichever path I choose.

Has handball as a sport changed you as a person?

Yes. It has taught me to be confident, to believe in myself and to take on challenges I am afraid of. Most of all, it has taught me that success doesn’t depend on one individual. It relies entirely on teamwork and coordination.

You have played in Germany, Sweden and Denmark. What did that experience mean to you?

Representing myself internationally and playing in three European countries has been one of the most memorable parts of my sporting journey. It inspired me to dream bigger and showed me the level of dedication needed to compete internationally. For now, my priority is completing Class 12, but handball will always hold a special place in my life. I would love to explore opportunities to return to the sport and compete at higher levels in the future.