With just two weeks to go, preparations are in full swing at Changlimithang in Thimphu as Bhutan gets ready to host the CAVA Beach Volleyball Tour next month. Six countries have so far confirmed their participation, while Bhutan’s men’s and women’s teams are stepping up training ahead of the three-day regional tournament.
The site at Changlingmithang is now being transformed into a beach volleyball facility, with courts and lighting being installed.
Bhutan will field three teams each in the men’s and women’s categories, with 12 players representing the country. The players have been training for about two months under two coaches.
For some players, the tournament will be their first international beach volleyball competition.
“This is my first beach volleyball competition. I have played indoor volleyball, but this is my first international beach volleyball competition. I know there will be experienced players from other countries, and I am looking forward to competing against them,” said Rinchen Selden.
Others are returning with hopes of improving their performance.
“I have participated in previous competitions, but I did not have much confidence at the time. This is my third time, and I am expecting a better result. We have been training well and working hard,” said Zangmo.
“We are training thoroughly. Our main challenge is limited experience, and we’re actively working to improve. We expect a better result this time, especially in defence, blocking and receiving,” said Jurme Rangdal.
“We face challenges such as limited equipment and international experience. But we are training hard and preparing ourselves to give tough competition to the other teams,” said Tshering Drukpa.
The players train for around four hours a day, focusing on fitness, attacking, defence, blocking and receiving.
The coaches say hosting the tournament will give players, coaches and officials valuable international exposure while encouraging more young people to take up the sport.
“This is the second edition of the tournament hosted by Bhutan. Based on our previous performance, we have focused on improving defence and service, which are key attacking skills in volleyball. Our main focus is on attacking, service and defence,” said Pema Dorji, Head Coach, Women’s Team.
“During the two months of training, we have focused on communication, coordination, fitness and game strategies. We are also analysing the playing styles of the foreign teams and preparing based on their tactics,” said Tandin Wangchuk, Head Coach, Men’s Team.
The three-day CAVA Beach Volleyball Tour will begin on the 4th of next month. This is the second time Bhutan will host the regional tournament.
Karma Wangdi
Edited by Sonam Pem
