My passion towards basketball, it is difficult to say when exactly did it start but I know my interest towards it began as I watched big brothers and sisters play basketball when I was in class 5. They went for tournaments and their excitement could be seen in their victory which was more attention seeking for me. I too wanted to try my hand, so I began to learn the game step by step.
The coaches appointed by the school had helped me a lot to sharpen my basketball techniques. My first coach in the school directed me to begin with basics and everyday she would train me for two hours in the morning and evening. With her guidance, my liking towards basketball increased and I wanted to continue playing.
Our school has a selection process to enlist the students for training. I gave my best trial in the selection process of the basketball and was selected. That was my first achievement and beginning of the journey of basketball in my life. My opening tournament was an inter branch tournament where I failed many shots and lost the game. The coach pointed out my mistakes and I too was disappointed with my performance. Later, I seriously considered my flaws and started to work on it. I fell back many times but still I did not want to give up, so I continued practicing till I overcame my drawbacks with the help of my coaches.
The confidence level to play basketball had increased in me and it was enhanced by the new coach ma’am. She motivated me and took me to a new level by exhibiting new techniques and skills of basketball. There was a lot of pressure and also there were times when I wanted to give up as I was not able to manage my studies and practice sessions. It was tiring and my academic performance was also getting affected in the beginning. But she kept motivating and encouraging me. She taught me to hold on and not fall back. With her help and support, I went on with my games and when it comes to academics, my teachers and school supported me. I got help from everyone and that left me to play my game with ease.
The turning point of my life was Jr. NBA tournament which I played at Andhra University. My selection was a stepping stone and I went to Coimbatore for National Championship team Selection Camp. I was selected and played many matches. The most important tournament was when I got selected to play basketball at the International School Sports Federation World School Gymnaside in France.
The journey of basketball till date was filled with ups and downs. I got support from our school Sri Prakash Vidyaniketan, the best school in Vizag, its teachers, coaches, friends and parents to withstand all the difficulties. I want to continue my journey and fly high in basketball field.