Tanvie Hans makes history playing in men's football league
Who is Tanvie Hans? Apart from being the first Indian-origin player to play for the Tottenham Spur Ladies team, she is the first female player ever to compete in the male-dominated "The Amateur League" (TAL), in India. The only female player in her team, Tanvie represents Cult FC in TAL. Not only this, she also captained the side. Let's find out more.
Tanvie Hans, player profile
Raised in Delhi, Tanvie Hans took to football at a young age playing for school, college and graduate university teams. She is a right-footed winger who played for Delhi Eves Football while in college. During her masters in England, she played for London giants Tottenham Hotspur reserves and later for the first team of Fulham Ladies.
Ineligibility to compete for the Indian national team
Owing to her British passport, Tanvie is not eligible for Indian team selection, despite being called up for the U-19 camp in 2008 and making it through the shortlist.
How did the TAL opportunity come about?
After coming back to India after her stint in London, Tanvie found an opportunity to ply her trade, as TAL (The Amateur League) announced their initiative to level the playing field for both genders, earlier this month. Tanvie was chosen as the face of this revolutionary move by TAL, which aim to bridge the gap between men and women in football.
About the Amateur League
The Amateur League is a 11-a-side football league which takes place in Bengaluru and Delhi. It began in 2014 and is currently in its 5th season which began on 17th December. It follows a semi-professional format involving relegation and promotion.