Panaji: Prachit Gaonkar has etched his name in FC Goa's history as the first player to progress from the club's junior-most level at under-13s to the first team and make his debut in the Indian Super League (ISL). After featuring in the ISL last season, the youngster also appeared in the Super Cup and the AFC Champions League Two, Asia's second-tier club competition this year.
The transition to the senior team has not been without its hurdles. "In the senior team, you are introduced to a new level with faster pace, a more physical game, and experienced players everywhere," said Prachit. "It's a bit tough sometimes in training. At FC Goa, there are experienced players, many of whom play for the national team. It was a bit difficult, but the players helped me a lot, which made me comfortable."
Interestingly, Prachit was coach Manolo Marquez's first-choice midfielder alongside Ayush for the ISL opener against Inter Kashi at Fatorda. Since then, with increased competition, the youngster has had limited time and was later asked to assist the reserves in the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL).
Goa reached the RFDL final for the second consecutive year, and although they narrowly lost to Bengaluru FC at home, Prachit enjoyed his role as a senior figure in the team. "When you come from the senior team and play in RFDL, you have an added responsibility, but on the field, your role remains the same. I was familiar with the team because I was with them last season. RFDL helped me since I wanted game time," he said.
Prachit added, "At FC Goa, I am happy that I can be a reference for youngsters since they now know there is a clear path from the U-13 to the seniors. Hopefully, there will be more who will make it to the senior team."
The 19-year-old had to contend with foreign midfielders for his seven ISL appearances last season, but even though there are no internationals in the team now in his position, he must jostle with the likes of Raynier Fernandes, Ayush Chhetri, Sahil Tavora, and Harsh Patre. "There are challenges," said Prachit. "There is competition between us and nobody is sure of a starting place. Whoever does well in training gets to play. Every time you do well in training, there's a chance that you will play."
