Indian Catholic Football Icon Grace Dangmei Announces Retirement After Distinguished Career

CHURACHANDPUR, Manipur, June 9, 2026: A remarkable chapter in Indian women’s football has come to a close as Grace Dangmei, an international professional footballer from the Rongmei Catholic community of Manipur, announced her retirement from professional football after a distinguished 13-year career.

Speaking in a video posted by Indian Football on social media after India's title-winning campaign, Dangmei reflected on her decision to step away from the international stage.

"It was very emotional towards the end of the game, and it is really hard to say goodbye to something I love the most," she said.

She added: "Going forward in my life and football, I have learnt many things. Thanks to the AIFF, and I am happy to have enjoyed this tournament success with my team, who promised me they would hand this trophy to me. I'm very happy."

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Dangmei hails from Dimdailong village in Churachandpur district of Manipur and belongs to the Rongmei tribe, one of the kindred tribes of the Zeliangrong community of North East India. She is the daughter of Catechist Simon Dangmei of St. Ignatius Parish, Bishnupur, and Rita Dangmei.

Rongmei Catholic Dimphuam (AMN), representing Assam, Manipur and Nagaland, congratulated Dangmei on her retirement in a note issued on June 8. The organisation described her journey from a humble background to international recognition as an inspiration for young people, especially young girls, and praised her hard work, commitment and passion for the game.

According to the organisation, Dangmei's life demonstrates how perseverance and dedication can become stepping stones to success. It described her as an embodiment of humility, struggle, perseverance, passion and achievement.

Dangmei began her football career in 2013 and brought it to a close after helping India secure its latest SAFF Women's Championship title. Although she did not start the final against Bangladesh, she came on as a substitute, was later handed the captain's armband and lifted the trophy during the prize distribution ceremony.

During her international career, she made 96 appearances for India and scored 24 goals. Her achievements earned her several honours, including AIFF Emerging Player of the Year (2018–2019), Indian Women's League Emerging Player (2017–2018) and FPAI Indian Player of the Year (Woman) in 2023.

She also represented clubs including KRYPHSA, Sethu FC, Gokulam Kerala and Sribhumi. In 2022, she joined Uzbek Women's League side FC Nasaf Karshi on a season-long contract and helped the club win both the league and cup titles that year, scoring four goals in 14 league matches.

Rongmei Catholic Dimphuam also highlighted her participation in international competitions, including the Olympics and the Asian Games, and her contribution to Indian football at both national and international levels.

As Grace Dangmei steps away from international football, she leaves behind a career marked by dedication, perseverance and success. Her journey from Dimdailong village to the international stage remains a source of pride for the Rongmei Catholic community and an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country.

By Catholic Connect Reporter