Competition against good foreign rivals is needed: Yolanda
Former international footballer Yolanda de Souza will be showcasing her collection of World Cup 2010 paintings at Kala Academy, Panjim from July 9-11.
Herald Sports Reporter, Aldrid Da Costa caught up with Yolanda at her art chamber in Calangute. Following are the excerpts of the interview.
Q. Where do you get your inspiration from when painting?
YS.I get my inspiration from the people I have met in my life and also from my beloved Calangute which has seen drastic changes over the years. I get upset when I take my daughter to the beach and see all the garbage.
Q. Who is the first sportsmen you have painted?
YS: In 2003 I painted Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly holding a pack of cards depicting his ace bowler Harbajan Singh whose performances helped India reach the final that year.
Q. What do you feel is your greatest achievement as a football player?
YS: I have entered the Limca Book of Records for scoring the first International hat-trick for the India women’s team and also was named player of the decade in 1980 by the federation. These were great moments but scoring a bicycle kick for India in Malaysia was my fondest memory as I worked hard to perfect that action.
Q. Recently the Sports Policy has given extra marks to sports people answering exams. Do you agree with this?
YS: I feel the government has made great strides in recent years to help sportsmen but I feel in my position, I would not have been happy to receive extra marks which I have not earned because in the long run it is not going to help.
Q. What can be done to restore glory in women’s football in India?
YS: I believe competition against good foreign opponents is the answer especially at the age group level. In 1981 we drew with Germany at the World Cup and were also the second best Asian team behind Taiwan at the time. This was only achieved through regular matches against strong National teams.
Q. Do you have plans to get back into football as a coach?
YS: For many years I dedicated myself to football and art took a back seat. I would love to coach but to give it my all, it would have to be full time, so for now I am concentrating on my paintings.
