Adam Vary
Updated on: October 11, 2024 5:16 am GMT
Brendan Hamill’s return to Melbourne Victory marks a significant homecoming for the Australian defender, who spent two years competing in the Indian Super League. His tenure with Mohun Bagan not only brought him success on the field but also immersed him in the rich culture of Indian football.
Exciting Return to Melbourne Victory
After two years away, Hamill is back with Melbourne Victory, where he previously enjoyed a successful stint, including winning the Australia Cup in 2021. The 31-year-old defender’s excitement for the upcoming 2024-25 season is palpable. “Coming back was probably the number one choice for me,” he stated regarding his return on a two-year deal with the club.
Hamill’s time in India was framed by remarkable personal and professional experiences. While he won several trophies with Mohun Bagan, including the ISL Cup, Premier’s Plate, and Durand Cup, the cultural experience proved to be just as valuable as the silverware.
A Unique Cultural Experience
Hamill described his transition to Indian football as eye-opening. The Australian player emphasized the stark contrasts he faced, from the way the game is played to the day-to-day life in Kolkata. “You have to adapt and fit into their culture. It’s totally different to what it is here,” he remarked.
Living in a different environment with his family, Hamill noted the warmth and hospitality of the Indian people and touched upon the importance of flexibility and adaptability in a new culture. “The club I was at attended to everything. It’s just interesting to see how they are as people and how they operate,” he said, highlighting the necessity of embracing new experiences in football and life.
Football Success with Mohun Bagan
During his time at Mohun Bagan, Hamill became a fan favorite, contributing to the club’s historic achievements. He was part of the team that captured the ISL Shield, clinching it in a nail-biting final against Mumbai City in front of an electrifying crowd of approximately 60,000 fans. The quest for the title took place in a venue that can hold up to 90,000 spectators, showcasing the passionate support for football in India.
“The scenes. Regardless of where you play, you can’t take that away from us,” Hamill reflected on the emotional impact of winning in such a charged atmosphere. His experience with Mohun Bagan was not only about the success they achieved but also about the loyalty of the fans, exemplified by the club’s impressive average attendance of 30,000 per game.
Cult Status Among Fans
Hamill’s popularity extended beyond match days, with fans flocking to training sessions and surrounding him at every opportunity. He jokingly compared their following to that of royalty, noting, “We have 100 people every training session, wanting selfies and autographs.” This level of admiration was palpable throughout Kolkata, where partisan fans caused traffic incidents just to catch a glimpse of the players.
The strong passion for football in India, particularly in Kolkata, is evident in the rivalry between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal. Hamill remarked on how pivotal football is to the community, comparing the fervor surrounding such matches to a form of local religion.
A Strong Connection with Australian Players
During his tenure at Mohun Bagan, Hamill was joined by fellow Australians, including Dimitri Petratos and Jason Cummings, enhancing the shared experience as they navigated their lives abroad together. Their friendships provided crucial support during what could be isolating times in a foreign country.
Hamill shared insights about the bond between him and Petratos, emphasizing that their shared background created a seamless integration into their Indian football experience. “We went to school with each other in Westfield Sports High School. We played with each other and against each other through the ranks,” he said.
In addition to their shared experiences, Hamill praised the appreciation Indians have for Australian players, recognizing their work ethic and positive attitude. He stated, “They like the way we work and our attitude. We work hard and get on with it,” emphasizing this as a major reason for the warm welcome he and his teammates received.
Looking Ahead to the A-League Season
As he steps back onto the pitch for Melbourne Victory, Hamill’s experiences in the Indian Super League will undoubtedly contribute to his performance in Australia’s A-League. His return to familiar terrain comes after solidifying his position in one of Asia’s most prestigious leagues.
Melbourne Victory is preparing for a competitive season, with fans eager to see how Hamill will apply his newfound experiences to help the club vie for titles once again. With a strong foundation in team spirit and a heightened sense of resilience acquired abroad, Hamill’s return promises to add both depth and excitement to the team’s forthcoming campaign.
As Hamill gets ready to face new challenges in the A-League, he thinks back on his journey with thankfulness. He knows that playing football has given him great experiences and helped him connect with people from different cultures.
