Achom Degio of Arunachal’s junior girls’ football team has made it to the final squad of Indian U-18 football team that would participate in the upcoming South Asian Football Federation’s (SAFF) U-18 Women’s Football Championship scheduled to be held in Bhutan from September 27.
Achom’s had in August made to the list of 35 probable players after her emphatic performance in the Junior Girls National Football Championship in Goa. She had since then been training with the national team in Sports Authority of India, Patiala in Punjab.
Achom was also a part of the U-14 Indian National Camp in the year 2014. She, however, could not make it to the final squad then.
Sports and Youth Affairs minister Dr Mohesh Chai and Sports Authority of Arunachal chairman Bamang Tago have congratulated the young footballer for her selection.
“Achom’s selection for the national team will definitely inspire a lot of youngsters, especially the girls who are interested in football,” said Dr Chai while wishing Achom success for the tournament and her future endeavors.
Reacting to Achom’s selection, Arunachal Pradesh Football Association (APFA) president Kipa Ajay said, “This is indeed a happy as well as proud moment for us. Achom’s achievement has opened the door for many girls to believe in their dreams and put forward efforts to achieve them. We congratulate her on this marvelous feat.”
Ajay also congratulated Kipa Takum and Kipa Bharat the chairman and coach of Capital Complex Football Club where Achom plays her professional football.
Daughter of Takyang Degio and Mejin Degio, Achom is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Physical Education from Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education, NERC in Guwahati.