International woman footballer from Manipur Ngangom Bala felt that India will one day make it to the top level group of nations in sports as one gets to be exposed to a new method of training system and opportunity to push it further.
Bala told media persons on Saturday while landing at Imphal Airport from Scotland, where she played for Rangers FC team. She also became the first woman footballer from India to ink a contract with European Club.
"I have inked an 18 month contract with Rangers FC of Scotland, which I have fulfilled. The Rangers FC has extended the contract for another six months, which I am very much indebted to but I have to think over it as I have to assess my knee injury as first priority. Also, my visa is expiring in July and needs to be renewed," Bala said.
She continued that she has learnt a lot from her sojourn with Rangers FC, about international football, their methods of training system and opportunity.
"Mostly, we lagged behind due to lack of opportunity to train abroad or the system available here is left wanting. Once these are looked upon and improved, we can certainly move ahead at a much better pace," she said.
"At the same time, I am very happy to be named the AIFF Women's Footballer of the Year 2020 by the federation. This is the third time I have got the award, the previous ones were in 2014 and 2015. This could happen because of the support that I have received from my teammates, family members, MPSC and well wishers. I am indebted to them all for the trust and love they have shown to me," Bala said.
Ngangom Bala also extended her gratitude to the state government for promoting her to the rank of inspector from constable.
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