Shillong: Everbrightson Sana nearly quit football forever. After competing in the Under-18 I-League, the Shillong native walked away from the sport between 2017 and 2019 to focus on his education during Classes XI and XII. He felt lost. "I was so blank during Class XI and XII. I didn’t know what I was going to do with my life. I just took one day at a time. At that time, I didn’t even want to play football," he recalls.
Sana returned to the pitch almost by accident. Encouraged by friends, he joined the Shillong Lajong reserve team. Coaches initially slotted him in as a right-back for the Shillong Premier League. He struggled. After a rough outing, a teammate’s injury forced a tactical shuffle. He moved to the striker position and immediately scored a hat-trick. Everything changed.
Born on December 28, 2002, the 23-year-old climbed the ranks to secure a professional contract for the 2023-24 I-League season. His father, Seibor Sana, a former player and academy coach, guided his development. Despite interest from Indian Super League clubs, Sana chose to stay with Shillong Lajong to refine his craft. He balances his athletic career with a History degree from St Anthony’s College.
He now focuses on pressing and finishing, studying legends like Ronaldo Nazário to master movement inside the penalty box. While fans compare him to Sunil Chhetri, he keeps his focus on his own path. He faces every challenge with a clear intent. "Whatever I do in life, I always give 100 per cent," he says. After tough losses against ISL sides like FC Goa, NorthEast United, and East Bengal in the Durand Cup, his nerves have vanished. He is finished with doubt. He is ready for the game.
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