Tag: WomenInSports

Entertainment

Sania Mirza Opens Up on Emotional Struggles Post Separation: “Farah Khan Saved Me That Day”

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Indian tennis legend Sania Mirza has always been known for her strength — both on and off the court. But in a rare and heartfelt moment, she opened up about her emotional struggles following her separation from former Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik, sharing how her close friend Farah Khan stood by her during one of her darkest times.

During a candid chat, Sania revealed an incident where she nearly broke down before going on a live show.

“I don’t want to mention it on camera,” Sania said, “but there was a moment that was one of the lowest points. You showed up on my set, and I had to go live after that. I was shivering. If you hadn’t come there, I wouldn’t have done that show. You told me, ‘No matter what, you are doing this show.’”

Responding to this, Farah Khan said,

“I got so scared. I have never seen you get a panic attack. I had to shoot that day, but I left everything and came in my pyjamas and chappals.”

The heart-to-heart between the two icons has touched fans across social media, serving as a reminder of the importance of genuine friendship and emotional support — especially for women in the spotlight.

Despite her personal struggles, Sania continues to inspire millions with her resilience and honesty, proving that vulnerability can be a form of strength.

✨ A moment of truth, courage, and friendship — one that reflects the real Sania Mirza.

#SaniaMirza #FarahKhan #ShoaibMalik #Allycaral #WomenInSports #EmotionalStrength #Friendship #Bollywood #CelebrityStories

Sports

Sesa Football Academy Concludes AIFF ‘D’ License Coaching Course, Empowering Grassroots Football Coaches

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk

Sesa Football Academy (SFA) has successfully concluded the AIFF ‘D’ License Course at its Sirsaim Campus, marking another important step in strengthening India’s grassroots football coaching network. The six-day intensive program was meticulously structured to provide aspiring coaches with the essential knowledge and hands-on experience required to identify, guide, and nurture young football talent.

The course saw active participation from 24 candidates, including five female coaches and three outstation participants, highlighting both inclusivity and the national appeal of the initiative. Over six days, participants engaged in a rigorous combination of classroom-based theoretical sessions and practical on-field training. This was followed by detailed evaluations — both theoretical and practical — ensuring a complete understanding of grassroots coaching standards.

The program was conducted under the expert mentorship of Mr. Gavin Araujo, Technical Director at Sesa Football Academy and a certified AFC Pro License Coach. The curriculum focused on age-appropriate training methodologies, technical and tactical fundamentals, and leadership skills essential for guiding young players. More than just coaching techniques, the course emphasized the importance of discipline, teamwork, and holistic player development.

Sharing his experience, participant Aditya Salgaonkar said, “The AIFF D-License course hosted by Sesa Football Academy was an enriching experience, balancing theoretical and practical learning. It has given me a deeper understanding of football from a coach’s perspective and made me more confident in guiding young players.”

Reflecting on the initiative’s success, Mr. Gavin Araujo remarked, “The AIFF ‘D’ License is a vital stepping stone in the journey of any coach. We are thankful to the Goa Football Association for the opportunity to host the course. It helps lay the foundation for structured football coaching and creates a strong base of trained professionals.”

This milestone follows closely after SFA hosted the AIFF ‘B’ License Course earlier this year, reaffirming its position as a key center for football education and excellence in India. By facilitating both entry-level and advanced coaching certifications, Sesa Football Academy continues to contribute significantly to the development of a robust, professional, and sustainable coaching ecosystem across the nation.

Through such initiatives, SFA not only nurtures future coaches but also reinforces its long-standing commitment to building India’s footballing future from the ground up.

Sports

Diana Pundole to Make History as the First Indian Woman to Race a Ferrari Internationally

Tanisha Cardozo

Indian motorsport is set to witness a historic moment as Diana Pundole, a 32-year-old racer from Pune, becomes the first Indian woman to race a Ferrari internationally. Beginning November 2025, she will take part in the Ferrari Club Challenge Middle East, driving the powerful Ferrari 296 Challenge — a track-only, high-performance machine from the legendary Italian marque.

The championship will run from November 2025 to April 2026, featuring races across some of the most iconic Formula One circuits in the Middle East — including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.

“It’s truly an incredible honour,” said Pundole. “Being part of the Ferrari Club Challenge Middle East as the first Indian woman is a proud moment not just for me but for women in Indian motorsport. I hope it encourages more women to pursue their passion for racing.”

Pundole began her racing journey in 2018 through the JK Tyre Women in Motorsport program, where she quickly stood out for her competitive spirit and multiple podium finishes. Since then, she has continued to make her mark in Indian motorsport, earning respect for her discipline and technical skill behind the wheel.

Now, her participation in the Ferrari Club Challenge Middle East represents a major milestone for Indian women in racing — and a proud moment for the country’s growing motorsport community.

With her signature blend of determination and talent, Diana Pundole is not only racing a Ferrari — she’s racing into history.

Sports

Sonia Raman Becomes the First Indian-American Woman to Lead a WNBA Team

Tanisha Cardozo

Sonia Raman’s story is one of courage, purpose, and quiet persistence — a journey defined by bold choices and unshakable belief. A former basketball player at Tufts University, Raman earned her law degree from Boston College and began her career as an attorney. But the courtroom wasn’t where her heart was — her true calling was on the basketball court.

Taking a leap of faith, she left law to pursue coaching full-time, joining the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where she led the women’s basketball team for over a decade. Her leadership and dedication to player development earned her a reputation as one of the most respected coaches in collegiate basketball.

In 2020, Raman broke another barrier by joining the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies as an assistant coach, bringing her strategic mind and analytical approach to the professional arena. Now, she’s made history once again — appointed as the head coach of the Seattle Storm, becoming the first Indian-American woman to lead a WNBA team.

Her achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a significant moment for representation in sports. For many women, immigrants, and aspiring athletes of color, Raman’s rise symbolizes what’s possible when passion meets purpose. Her journey is proof that there is no single path to success — only the courage to follow one’s own.

Sports

Himanshi Tokas Creates History: Becomes World No. 1 in Junior Women’s Judo (63kg)

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Indian sports has a new star shining bright! 🥋✨
Himanshi Tokas has created history by reaching the World No. 1 spot in the Junior Women’s 63kg Judo Rankings, making her the first Indian ever to secure the top position in world judo rankings.

This extraordinary feat is not just a personal milestone but also a landmark moment for Indian judo, which has long awaited recognition on the global stage. Himanshi’s consistent performances in international competitions, backed by hard work, grit, and discipline, have propelled her to the top of the rankings.

Her achievement sends a strong message about the rising power of Indian women athletes and inspires the next generation to pursue excellence in sports.

As India celebrates this incredible milestone, all eyes will now be on Himanshi Tokas as she continues her journey to bring further glory to the nation. 🇮🇳🔥