Took to the sport at class 9 in my hometown of Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram. Joined Kerala’s Sports Hostel for classes 11 and 12. I played Sub-Junior Nationals and when in college for the University.

In 1997, when Kerala won the Senior Nationals for the first time, that was my first Senior Nationals too. The following year I played in the Junior Asian championship.

That would be my family, my father especially. He was the one who took me and stood by me from club, the Sports Hostel, selection trials, and everything. He was my motivator.

From 1999 I played Senior India until 2012. Two Asian Games (2002 & 2006, I was captain in 2006), five Asian Championships (2001, 2003, 2005, 2007 & 2011), captain of the Indian team from 2005 to 2009).

Kerala’s first Senior Nationals crown and my Arjuna Award in 2010, not to forget the World Railways title.

It’s a great opportunity for youngsters. They get to play with and against global players and Olympic medallists. The experience that the youngsters get, that’s the major thing. Name, fame, monetary benefits too.