Preparing and challenging herself, Ishika Shah aged 14, grabs a piece of history by representing INDIA at international level in the Snooker sport. Snooker is rarely chosen by athletes as it is considered one of the toughest sport. Setting apart this tradition, she has chosen this game and proved herself worthy for same.

14 year old Ishika Shah from Indore(M.P), has added another feather to the hat by winning bronze at IBSF World Under-18 Girls Snooker Championship at Mol, Belgium making the end of the year 2016 more rewarding and fantastic.

Excerpts from the conversation with the snooker prodigy:

1.Tell us about your inspiring sports journey. How did you cope up with the hurdles in between?

It has been tough, sometimes rewarding and sometimes teaching me lessons. My Snooker journey so far is full of leanings, challenges and inspiration drawn from many ideals. Right from picking the cue for the first time till whatever little i have achieved gives me immense satisfaction. Taking participation in various tournaments across the globe need you to do lot of adjustments. Maintaining the same spirit is sometimes very challenging, but at the same time it teaches you so much.

2. Why did you choose Snooker as your sport from a pool of very popular sports like Tennis, badminton etc.

When i look back, I found it the most difficult and best decision I have ever made. I was not pressurized for choosing this but presented with option. My father inspired me to choose snooker. It came from inside when I keep seeing my father playing this sport. Gradually, my interest started generating in this and that’s how I got in it. I never compared my sport with any other sport on any basis. For me its something which I can play from my whole zeal and energy.

3. How do you think your game has evolved over the years as far as your own expectations are considered?

My game is definitely getting evolved day by day after getting tough competition from various Indian as well as other country players. Every game of mine teaches me and motivates me to do better, it gives me different dimension always and thus its in improvement stage. But yes! I need to learn a lot more when it comes to my expectations, and I’m confident that I will try to do the best in snooker in times to come.

4. If I had to ask you, what are the two or three strengths that you would pick as your game cornerstones?

When it comes to my strength, my first strength is my father who always guides me on how to improve my skills. When it comes to table during the game I always concentrate on my moves and game instead of bothering about against whom I’m playing with. I just keep my head coll and plan my moves as per the position of table and what best can be done in that situation.

5. Back in 2016 ,you nailed it by winning Sub-junior National Snooker Championship title. How did managed the pressure during game when you defeated Anushi Seth by 50-2,50-33 in the final match?

As I mentioned earlier that I always try to keep cool during the game.It is one of the important aspects which has helped me always. I was just concentrating on my best. Of course when you inches closer to the title it creates a pressure to perform better but I try to just remember to perform better. The title can be yours if u make your moves properly and tension free.

6. How do you strike a balance between academics and sports ?Are you aspiring for a career in Snooker?

When it comes to my studies I must thank my school and teachers. They always help me to maintain the balance and are ready to help me when I am out for tournaments. They cover up the course and clear my doubts. Of course it affects your other hobbies and socializing but I am happy the way I’m moving ahead.

7. You have struggled and worked desperately hard to achieve this feat. What would be your advice to aspiring snooker players?

Be clear in what you want. Do not let any pressure mount on you. Always play your best game even when you are with a weaker competitor and never take your game lightly.

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