Goa’s Tanisha Crasto, along with her doubles partner Ashwini Ponnappa, has qualified to make it to the Olympics in Paris this year. The duo qualified after they won at the Badminton Asia Championship. Currently at Hyderabad, coaching for the Olympics, Dubai-born with Goan roots, Tanisha will be the 23rd Goan to represent India at the Olympics.
In a candid chat, Tanisha and her father Clifford Crasto talk about their hopes and dreams and a lot about badminton.
NEVER LOSE FOCUS
“When Tanisha was selected to play at the Olympics, we were overjoyed, but at the same time, we knew what our goals were. She has worked very hard to reach where she is today. It’s all Tanisha’s hard work and dedication,” Clifford, over a telephonic call from Dubai, told GT Digital.
Adding to this, Tanisha said, “We have rigorous training routines tailored for the Paris Olympics right from focusing on mental fortitude and strategy. We spend years honing our skills for events like the Olympics. We work closely with coaches, nutritionists and sports psychologists to optimise our performance and ensure we’re in peak condition for the competition.” She added, “It’s an incredible journey of dedication and determination.”
COMMUNICATION IS KEY
Though everyone thinks of winning matches, there are numerous hurdles and challenges one encounters on the way that have to be overcome, and Tanisha determinedly did this. Just like how communication works best in solving relationships, in doubles too the mantra is the same. Tanisha and Ashwini didi (as she fondly calls her) sure have strong communication and coordination.
“Communication is the key here—clearly defining roles on the court, maintaining good communication during rallies and providing constructive feedback after matches or practice sessions helps us in overcoming this challenge. By combining these strengths and working together as a cohesive unit, Ashwini didi and I achieve success on the badminton court,” said Tanisha.
Her proud dad, Clifford, said that Tanisha started playing badminton at a young age and that they had a regular ritual that after she returned home the family would treat the kids to biryani and it is still followed.
HOPE TO GET RECOGNISED
From a young age Tanisha has been toiling hard and winning laurels for Goa, but Clifford and Tanisha hope that the Goa government gives her the recognition she truly deserves. “Goa has treated me well over the years, but unfortunately I have not received the credit which I should have got. Hopefully the new committee will change things going ahead,” Tanisha told GT Digital
Adding to this, Clifford said, “We came to Dubai for work and we have always been Goan in heart, mind and soul. I hope the Goa government helps and supports Tanisha in her career.”
FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME
Tanisha is a big fan of Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu, who have been trailblazers for women badminton players in our country. “They both have won numerous titles, inspiring a generation of young players in India and beyond.”
For Tanisha, badminton is all about having fun and enjoying the thrill of playing the game. “It’s not just about winning matches; it’s about the joy of competing, the camaraderie with teammates and the lifelong lessons learned through sport. It’s about playing, learning and never giving up on your dreams,” she quipped and signed off.