Meet Seriton Fernandes, a rising star from the picturesque town of Quepem in South Goa. With a background rooted in a middle-class family—his father a counselor and his mother a homemaker—Seriton’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication and passion. From a young age, he developed a deep love for football, a passion that has since shaped his life and career.
Early Life and Education
Seriton’s formative years were spent in Quepem, where he attended Don Bosco School and later pursued his higher education at Damodar College. It was during this time that his football journey began in earnest, inspired by his father’s encouragement. “My dad took me to watch I-League matches, often suggesting I skip tuition to see my heroes in action. This sparked my love for the sport,” he recalls. His commitment led him to play for both his school and college teams, eventually earning a spot on the Goa U-19 team for national tournaments.
A Passion for the Game
Reflecting on his early experiences, Seriton shares, “After school, I’d head home for lunch, but I often found myself at the football ground instead of tuition.” His enthusiasm was so strong that he once skipped nearly a month of classes, focusing solely on the sport. Inspired by icons like Cristiano Ronaldo, he immersed himself in football, learning both on and off the pitch.
Overcoming Challenges
Every athlete faces hurdles, and Seriton is no exception. He encountered injuries and other challenges but viewed them as opportunities for growth. “These obstacles helped me build physical and mental resilience,” he explains. “It’s all part of the journey.”
Key Achievements
Seriton’s commitment has paid off with remarkable achievements. As a key player for FC Goa, he contributed to the team’s victories, including the Hero Super Cup (2018-19), the Hero ISL League Winners’ Shield (2019-20), and the Durand Cup (2021). Notably, he also became part of the first Indian club to compete in the AFC Champions League in 2021. His proudest moment came when he won the SAFF Championship with the Indian national team, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Seriton remains focused on his goals. “I aim to continue playing for FC Goa and help the team clinch the ISL trophy. Additionally, I aspire to represent the Indian national team regularly, as wearing that jersey for the first time was a highlight of my career,” he shares with ambition.
Advice for Aspiring Athletes
For those looking to follow in his footsteps, Seriton offers sage advice: “If you’re passionate about football, be prepared to work hard and stay determined. Success takes time, and you must be patient. Embrace the ups and downs as part of the journey, learn from your mistakes, and strive for continuous improvement.”
Seriton Fernandes exemplifies how hard work and perseverance can lead to success, inspiring the next generation of athletes to chase their dreams in the world of football.
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