UditVani, Jamshedpur: Nine-year-old Shivanya Mahto is fast emerging as a promising young talent at the Jamshedpur Football School, training at the iconic JRD Tata Sports Complex.
Part of the Under-9 batch, Shivanya stands out not only for her skills but also for her determination—she is one of just two girls training alongside boys under the guidance of experienced coaches.
Her potential shone brightly during the Jamshedpur Super League, where Shivanya made a memorable debut by scoring a brilliant hat-trick against an all-boys team.
The performance drew attention across the sidelines and highlighted the expanding space for young girls in Jamshedpur’s grassroots football ecosystem.
For her parents, Ritesh Kumar Mahato and Uttara Rani Mahato, enrolling Shivanya at the football school was guided by a clear vision. “We want Shivanya to one day play for the Indian football team. That dream led us to choose Jamshedpur Football School,” said Uttara. “She is getting the right environment here—structured coaching, competitive exposure, and the confidence to take on boys on equal footing.”
Uttara also emphasised the role of competitive platforms in a child’s development. “The JSL is giving her the perfect stage to sharpen her skills. Regular matches and learning from the experienced coaches of Jamshedpur FC are helping her grow every day, both as a footballer and as an individual,” she added.
Shivanya Mahto’s journey mirrors a positive shift in Jamshedpur’s grassroots football culture—one where talent is nurtured beyond gender barriers, and young dreams are given room to flourish.
