If You're Not Winning, You're Learning

Looking back on my second Malaysian Youth Polo Tournament, it's tough to get second place, in the same tournament, for two consecutive years. Both times being extremely close, hard-fought battles for first. But like Nelson Mandela once said "I never lose. I either win or I learn.”

While I would like to feel the joy and satisfaction of winning, as I keep improving and start playing larger roles in teams, I need to remember that winning is not something that defines success. From this tournament, I learned to focus on what I can control ... playing to the best of my ability, executing the game plan, and trusting my teammates.

One of the best parts about this tournament was meeting all the new people coming from a wide range of countries. My team was one of the more diverse teams in the tournament, consisting of one Canadian/Italian/German/Ethiopian (me), two Australians, and a Pakistani. It was fun playing polo with them and making friendships that will last longer than any polo tournament. I gained experience playing as the number 4 on our team, trying to coach and help my teammates while also playing which is something different that I am still learning and trying to improve. I also need to thank Coach Agha Murtaza for helping me with my swing when taking penalties. He is never done critiquing my swing but I am thankful for just that, and the constant coaching he provides. I really enjoyed being in the company of other kids my age playing a sport which is a shared passion for all of us. Finally, a big thank you to my mentor and Coach Peter Abisheganaden for organizing this fantastic tournament!

Under the neck goal:

Sending a 30-yarder over the fence:

Lofting a penalty 60 skyward: