DOHA

Inspiration sometimes comes in unusual circumstances and in most unlikely situations. That is exactly what happened to 14-year-old Chanel Tiana Rebello, an Under-17 badminton girls’ doubles winner based in Qatar.

Children always look forward to their annual vacation with enthusiasm. For them exploring new places, making new friends and spending quality time with their grandparents, cousins, friends and other members of the family is what they eagerly wait for.

For Chanel, the Under-17 badminton girls’ double winner, the first steps of the game started in 2018 at Raia not in any academy or an indoor complex, but from the house of her maternal grandparents.

“One day when she was on summer vacation to Goa in 2018 her grandfather Iraldo Fernandes introduced her to the sport by just knocking the shuttle in the front yard. This is where she developed an interest for badminton,” said Chanel’s mother Tina Rebello.

Once she was back to Qatar, the Grade 9 student of DPS MIS Doha continued from where she left Goa.

“She continued to play badminton in school until COVID hit in 2019. She also likes to play Cricket, Volleyball, Kho Kho and Football, and was selected in the school team but due to time constraint she chose to play and stay focused on badminton,” added Tina.

She continued to play badminton and two years back, she joined Cosmos Academy and since then has been improving her game by leaps and bound much to the satisfaction of the coaches.

“I had the pleasure of coaching Chanel for two years, witnessing her transformation from a complete beginner to a skilled player. Her dedication and hard work have yielded remarkable progress. Chanel possesses the discipline required to excel in badminton, and her ability to learn quickly from mistakes is impressive,” said coach Minhaj, describing her as an ‘inspiring student’.

“With her excellent personality and eagerness to improve, she has immense potential. I’m confident she’ll achieve her goals, and I look forward to continuing our journey together. Special thanks to Chanel’s parents for their unwavering support,” the coach added, while wishing Chanel continued success. 

Tina acknowledges the role the academy has played in shaping her badminton career over the last two years.

“The Cosmos Academy and coaches have given their time and effort to shape her talent by providing intensive training which also involves fitness and a strict nutritional diet,” said Tina.

“Her Coach Minhaj has inspired her with his dedication and achievements, helping to shape her commitment and passion for the sport,” she added.

Chanel for the moment is focused both on sports and studies, says her mother.

“She is a dedicated and consistent player, demonstrating strong focus both in her sports and academics,” said Tina.

Asked about the role the parents and the school management have played in shaping the career of the young badminton player, Tina said: “We have provided encouragement and support in her sporting journey, whether through attending matches or facilitating training. The school management has also contributed by offering opportunities to compete.”

For inspiration, she looks up to his elder brother, Shane, who also plays badminton and swimming. Besides Shane, coach Minhaj and coach Akshay are her badminton idols.

Chanel’s father Fredrick said sports and academics go hand in hand and a lot to gain from sports in terms of realistic life lessons.

“As parents, we would like to emphasise the importance of maintaining a balance between sports and academics, as both can enrich each other. We are grateful for the unwavering support from coaches and peers, recognising the valuable life lessons gained through sports, such as teamwork, resilience, and discipline.”

“We encourage other young athletes to pursue their passions wholeheartedly while also staying committed to their studies,” added Fredrick, who traces his roots to Varca village in Salcete.