Tamil Nadu - Coimbatore   

Misspasses in life; Henry fails to net goals

Rayan Rozario

IN TEARS: Henry Williams. - Photo: K. Ananthan

Coimbatore: Life was a bed of roses for Henry Williams four decades ago. He was a wiry district footballer who was remarkably clever on the ball. Even as a schoolboy, he was seen as the best available talent in this part of the country. So, it came as no surprise when Rossi, then Director of an Italian firm, The Itan Viscosa Eastern Trading Company, offered him a job that fetched him a bright sum of Rs. 450 in the sixties.

Dr. Rossi also promised to shape the young boy's career by getting him a chance to play for the reputed A.C. Milan. There were many who envied his sudden leap to fame. Henry, who had represented a few corporate teams besides playing the league, grabbed the chance that came his way and, instead of using the opportunity to climb up in life, spent much of his precious time and money drinking and dining. There was yet another chance that came his way. The British Manager of the Asbestos Cements Company, Snowball, issued an office order that read like this: "Get Henry into our company's football team. He has the hunger for goals. It will not be long before he becomes the best forward in India."

The company approached him but he ignored the request. "I continued partying. That was the worst mistake I made in my life. I never could come out of it and ruined my career as well. When I realised my worth, it was all over," said Henry, who is currently struggling to make both ends meet.

Today, the 64-year-old is virtually on the streets and earns his bread and butter doing odd jobs. Despite the darkness in life, his face turns radiant when one talks football to him. He quickly recollects those big matches, the top stars and their exploits at the Nehru Stadium here. In fact, he has even precious data of the State and national players at his fingertips. "I love the game and that's the reason I am still alive today. My life must be a big lesson to every player. I don't want anybody to run through such turbulent times," says Henry.

The once-classy footballer has also rushed in a request application to the State Government urging pension under the sports scheme. If the Government is kind enough then life may look up for Henry otherwise this sexagenarian's struggle for existence will continue.

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