Football is one of the most popular sports in the country. The elderly, children, and youth alike love and share a common zeal for the sport. The game, at a mainstream level, is generally played by adults. However, for the first time, Bhutan Football Federation is organizing a football league- the “Mini-Dragon League” for children. More than 300 children are participating in the league.
The first season of the Mini-Dragon League kicked off at the Changlimithang Stadium last week. Children aged between 8 and 12 are supported by existing football clubs and private academies. The Bhutan Football Federation said the maiden event is to develop football in the country by investing in the young lot.
Galey Zangpo from the Bhutan Football Federation said, “I can say that the children are very much interested and excited. They practice and come to play even after school. Not just the children, their parents are also very supportive. They stay and support their children regardless of the weather or time. If we give them this kind of platform, when they grow up, they will have both, skills and experience to play for the country.”
Children play once a week. With the introduction of the major children’s league, the entire football fraternity hopes that the sport reaches new heights.
Tshering Dendup
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
