By Lucas Robert
Introduction
It is said that football took root in Car Nicobar with the blessings of the Late Bishop John Richardson, who brought the first football from Burma in the year 1912. Sports have long been a way of life for the Nicobarese and have now become a popular movement across the islands.
The development of sports in Nicobar can be traced back to 1965, when the Car Nicobar school team participated in their first National Football Championship (Under-17) — the Subroto Mukherjee Cup. Although the region has always had immense sporting potential, various challenges prevented it from being fully recognized and nurtured.
Nevertheless, sportspersons from Car Nicobar have consistently showcased outstanding performances in football at the State, National, and International levels. In addition to active participation, the islands have produced a significant number of talented footballers who have earned laurels both nationally and internationally.
Among them is J. B. Daniel, a distinguished footballer who represented the Car Nicobar team in the Subroto Mukherjee Cup Championship, as well as the Indian Navy and Services teams. He has played at the State, National, and International (Friendly matches) levels.
Early Life and Background
J. B. Daniel is a name that echoes with pride and admiration in Car Nicobar football history. He was born on October 05, 1945, in Kinyuka Village, Car Nicobar and Peacefully passed away on December 12, 2000. His father served as a Village Headman. He was married to Jane and blessed with two sons and three daughters: John Michael, Stella, Patrick, Queendoline, and Roseline.
He completed his matriculation from Government Senior Secondary School, Lapathy, Car Nicobar. During his school days, he represented the school football team and led them to several victories in the Nicobar Athletics Association Football Championship. Raised in a sporting environment, Daniel developed a deep passion for football from an early age. His Nicobarese heritage and disciplined upbringing laid a strong foundation for both physical endurance and mental strength.
Car Nicobar rose to national fame when the school team won the prestigious Subroto Mukherjee Cup in 1966, defeating the Jalandhar school team 2–0. Following this historic win, several football clubs approached the Car Nicobar team manager to recruit players. However, none of the players accepted the offers. Subsequently, the Indian Navy sent a team to Car Nicobar for a talent search. Several boys were selected, and J. B. Daniel was among them.
He was inducted into the Indian Navy in 1969 and served until 1979. After his service, he continued his football career professionally by joining Dempo Sports Club, Goa, in 1979, where he played until 1988.
Daniel’s tenure with the Navy provided him not only the platform to grow as a professional athlete but also made him a role model and source of inspiration for generations of aspiring footballers in the Nicobar Islands.
Legacy and Impact
J. B. Daniel is regarded as a pioneer and role model in Nicobar’s sporting history. His journey from the humble football grounds of Car Nicobar to National stadiums symbolized the potential and resilience of island youth. He played a vital role in putting Car Nicobar on the Indian football map and paved the way for future generations of Nicobarese athletes.
Even after his active playing days, his influence remained strong mentoring younger players, promoting grassroots football development, and upholding the values of discipline and perseverance. During his professional career with Dempo Sports Club, he also facilitated opportunities for other talented players from his island. Notably, he invited outstanding footballers such as his own brother Kumar Beat, emerging international talent Shri Thomas Kusbhoo, and Shri Emmanuel, all of them continued the legacy of Nicobarese excellence in football.
Beginning of a Glorious Career
• Represented his school team, Government Higher Secondary School, Lapathy, in 1965,1966,1967 and 1968, and won the Nicobar Athletics Association Football Championship.
• Represented his school team in the National Football Championship – Subroto Mukherjee Cup in 1966 and 1967, where Car Nicobar won this prestigious cup for the first time and consecutively.
• Represented the Indian Navy in the Harwood Champions League, Mumbai Premier League, and Mumbai Corporate League in 1974, 1975, and 1976.
• Represented the Services Team in the National Football Championship in 1975 and 1976.
• Joined Dempo Sports Club, Goa, in 1976, and continued to represent the club in various national championships until 1985.
• As a team member of Dempo Sports Club, the club won the Goa League Championship multiple times and many other Championships organised by All India Football Federation.
• Elevated as Team Manager of Dempo Sports Club, Goa in 1985 to 1986.
Secretary, Tribal Council & Village Captainship
Upon his return from Goa, in recognition of his outstanding experience and contributions, the Tribal Council of Car Nicobar nominated J. B. Daniel as its first Secretary from 1988 to 2000. He served the Council with full dedication. Thereafter, he was selected as the Village Captain of Kinyuka Village, Car Nicobar in 1994 and 1998 (5years Term), a position he held with distinction for two consecutive tenures.
Legacy and Conclusion
J. B. Daniel holds a revered place in the history of football from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in general, and Car Nicobar in particular. His football career will be cherished as a lasting memory and will continue to inspire young players across the islands to pursue football with passion and professionalism. He will forever be remembered as the heart and soul of island football — a true sports legend who transformed the spirit of the beautiful game in these islands. Although he is no longer with us, his contributions to the development of football, his leadership as a Village Captain, and his service as an Executive Committee Member of the Tribal Council, Car Nicobar, will be remembered and cherished forever.