Pema Gatshel District Sports Association opened new opportunities for women by inviting women’s teams to participate in its annual Departmental Football Tournament. This inclusion, according to the women participants, promotes equality and encourages female participation in sports.
While only three women’s teams competed this year, the community applauded the move.
Participants said that such a tournament provides a platform for women football enthusiasts to showcase their talents.
Tshering Choden, a footballer said, “The organisers have provided us with equal opportunities, just like the men. We are very pleased about that. It is not that we women lack talent; we have our skills, and when given such opportunities, we can showcase our talents to others.”
She added that participants hope that more women’s teams will join the upcoming tournaments.
“Many football enthusiasts are left uninformed about such tournaments. They are asking us about future events. We are also expecting more teams to join us in the future,” said Tshering.
A total of 15 teams participated in the men’s category. Winners were awarded the trophies and cash prizes.
The District Sports Association organised the tournament to celebrate the 117th National Day.
It was aimed to promote fitness and reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Sangay Chezom
