Jerry Mawihmingthanga, the 24-year-old winger from Mizoram, had recorded the maximum number of assists by an Indian in the previous season of the Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) with five assists from 17 games and in addition to that, he also scored two goals. Jerry has played 34 matches in two seasons for Odisha FC so far and bagged the FPAI Young Player of the Year Award for the 2019–20 season as well. He is leaving no stone unturned in his preparations for the upcoming Hero ISL 2021-22 and it was tough for the OFC Media Team to get hold of him for a short chat. Here’s what he has to say:
 

Love for football

Jerry: Since my childhood, I fell in love with the game of football and from there I made up my mind to pursue a career in football. So from that time, I decided to become a professional footballer.

Childhood role model

Jerry: Mama (Shylo Malsawmtluanga) is always a big role model for each and every Mizoram kid.

Biggest Inspiration 

Jerry: My family is the biggest inspiration in my life. They are the ones who helped me become who I am today and guided me. They showed me the true path of hardwork and inspired me not to give up on my dreams. They are always my inspiration and they have always supported me.

Other sports he follows

Jerry: Apart from football, I love basketball. I used to play basketball a lot during my childhood and even now I am a big fan of the sport.

Aim and aspirations 

Jerry: My aim is always to be better and to develop as a player and as a human being each and every day. I want to focus on myself and I always work on myself to become a better player and person.  

The biggest moment of his career so far

Jerry: Nothing as of now. The biggest moment or the best moment of my career is yet to come and I am working quite hard for that.