Turf culture has been popular for some years in cities overseas, as well as in the country. While most of the districts in the country now have artificial turf football grounds, Pema Gatshel still lacks the facility.
12 teams participated in the recent Nangkor Central School Silver Jubilee football tournament. Cheering the teams, many spectators flocked to witness the match.
And while the matches were competitive, the experience would have been even more interesting if they had an artificial turf ground.
“We see many teams participating and showing interest in such tournaments. But if there is an artificial turf ground in the district, we can conduct more such tournaments thereby promoting the sport in the district,” said Dorji Phuntsho, a football enthusiast.
“It’s inconvenient when it rains and becomes muddy. Moreover, the lack of facilities demotivates us and hampers the promotion of the sport. From elders to children, everyone is interested in football. So, if we happen to have an artificial turf ground here, it would further enhance the interest and enthusiasm,” said Sonam Tobgay, another football enthusiast.
In the absence of such a facility, football lovers have either been travelling to nearby districts or relying on school grounds.
“Like Samdrup Jongkhar if we have an artificial turf here, we don’t have to spend a huge expenditure to go there to play. We can instead use that money to promote football in the district,” said Dorji Phuntsho.
“During the weekend, we have been travelling to Samdrup Jongkhar to play friendly matches as they have a turf facility there,” said Sonam Tobgay.
With most of the eastern districts owning at least an artificial turf ground, the wait continues for football lovers in Pema Gatshel.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Sonam Pem
