PANAJI
The star player of Crazy Pirates Rugby Club, Jeevan Sadanand Bedadolkar from Verla Canca is all set to be the first Goan to represent the State as a referee for the 36th National Games (rugby) scheduled to be held in Gujarat.
The 22-year-old is a certified coach of World Rugby. He has played for the national team in rugby for the last four years, and has previously coached the senior women's rugby team of Goa. Apart from rugby, Bedadolkar won a gold medal at State Level Boxing Championship and also played in Goa Kabaddi League.
“Rejection is my biggest motivation and boosts my will to achieve more and do better,” Bedadolkar told 'The Goan'. His family and friends have been a pillar of strength for him. "We have always had financial problems but my parents never discouraged me from playing sports,” he said.
He gives credit to his school physical education coach Amar Kolvalkar from St Joseph’s School, Arpora for nurturing a strong love for sports among his students. He is thankful to Kaniel D’souza and Duarteson Norohna from Crazy Pirates Club and Anish Quenim from Goa Rugby for their support in his growth in the field. He also acknowledges Mark Fernandes for his guidance and coaching. “Everyday I wake up and dream of playing for the nationals. I will always strive to make Goa proud,” remarked Bedadolkar.
