Sonia Marak, a 26-year-old footballer from West Karbi Anglong, embodies the spirit of dedication with her simple Facebook bio: “Mom is my God, football is my love.”
These two pillars shape her life, driven equally by her mother, Rikmi, and her passion for football. Recently, Sonia played a pivotal role in leading the Karbi Anglong Sports Association (KASA) Girls Football Club to victory in the Assam Women’s League, qualifying them for the Indian Women’s League (IWL) 2. Now, she is gearing up to showcase her team’s talent on a national stage.
“It’s fantastic to win the league. We’re excited to represent Assam in the IWL 2 when the new season kicks off,” Sonia expressed in a statement to The Assam Tribune. Alongside her competitive pursuits, Sonia also coaches young talent at the Khelo India Small Centre in Hanjanglangso Sarihajan. She has garnered attention from Kickstart FC in Karnataka, one of India’s top women’s football clubs. Despite their offers, she feels committed to her community and has chosen to stay put.
“I receive regular calls inviting me to join, but I can’t leave my center,” she said. Sonia has recently acquired her AIFF D License to sharpen her coaching skills, reflecting her commitment to nurturing future stars.
She has no regrets about her journey. “Football has given me everything. People know me, love me, and respect me. I can now support my family and help my mother build a house,” Sonia said, revealing her pride in her achievements. Growing up in Satgaon Rengthama No 14, she faced significant challenges, including the loss of her father at a young age. Her mother, initially hesitant about her daughter’s football ambitions, eventually became her steadfast supporter.
“My mother means everything to me. She is my God. I’m nobody without her. It’s because of her that I am who I am today,” said Sonia, her voice filled with emotion. During the Assam Women’s League final in Diphu, she shared a touching moment with her mother, who watched her lead the team to victory. Afterward, Sonia placed her winner’s medal around her mother’s neck, a gesture of gratitude and pride.
Despite her mother’s initial concerns about the financial viability of a football career, Sonia has modeled resilience. Over the years, she has represented various clubs, including NorthEast United FC, Guwahati City FC, Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC, and Signature Football Club in Delhi. As a constant member of the Assam state team, she has also captained the squad multiple times.
Head coach Horen Engti sees great potential in Sonia. “She has the capability to represent India at the senior level. She’s a standout performer and serves as an inspiration to younger players,” he noted. Engti is optimistic about the team’s future in the IWL 2 and aims to promote women’s football throughout Assam.
“This is a promising sign for women’s football in Assam. We will actively scout talent across the state. Our aim is to make a mark on the national stage,” he stated, hoping their recent success will inspire local clubs to invest in women’s football and foster a competitive environment.
Sonia, who idolizes Indian football legend Bembem Devi, is determined to don the India jersey one day. With her unwavering determination and her mother’s solid support, that dream may soon become a reality.
