The think-tank of Shreebhumi FC seems more positive this year, ahead of their second season in the Indian Women’s League (IWL), which finished third in their debut in the elite Indian Women’s League (IWL) last season.

One of the reasons is the inclusion of a fitness and a physical trainer. Technical Director, Shukla Dutta, says, “The girls look fitter, more competitive this time in the training.”

The team have been preparing for almost a month at Kalyani Stadium ground. The team’s chief coach, Sujata Kar also agreed to the point, stating, “Fitness and physical trainer’s joining have strengthened the preparation. Still, we did not get 11 of our footballers during most of our preparation as all of them went to play for the country in the under-17 and under-20 categories.”

Shreebhumi FC has signed a few Indian internationals, including Anju Tamang, Shibani Nongmeikapan, and Thoibisana Toijam, along with seasoned campaigners like Rimpa Halder, Moushumi Murmu, and Bala Devi, who wore Shreebhumi FC shirts last season.

Sujata herself also wants to make a fresh beginning after a gloomy phase as the coach of Southern Samity in the CFL last season. “I am always in a learning process. So, I am looking forward to a new season to prove my mettle again,” added the coach.

When asked about the players’ strength in the team, Shukla Dutta mentioned Bala’s name, adding, “She has a huge experience and she still guides the youngsters in a way that has been an example and additional motivation for them. I feel Bala Devi is still a strength for us.”