Using sports as a platform to promote awareness about drug prevention, the Bhutan Volleyball Federation has organised the Thimphu Thromde School Volleyball Championship. Twenty teams from 11 schools are competing in the tournament at the Changlimithang National Volleyball Arena. Alongside the competition, the tournament is advocating against drug use.
The Bhutan Volleyball Federation in collaboration with the Thimphu Thromde is hosting the nine-day Thimphu Thromde School Volleyball Championship tournament.
The Bhutan Volleyball Federation said the games will be played all day during weekends and after school on weekdays.
The young sports enthusiasts shared their excitement for the event.
“This event is very helpful because it benefits us both mentally and physically. Through this event, we are gaining skills that lead to improved mental and physical health. Consequently, we are better able to avoid or not think about drugs,” said Samten Dema, a student of Zilukha Middle Secondary School.
“Through such volleyball tournaments, we can promote our engagement in sports. These events highlight the importance of both classroom learning and sports. Therefore, I would like to thank the Bhutan Volleyball Federation for organising such events,” said Kinley Phuntsho, a student of Loselling Middle Secondary School.
“The tournament is an opportunity for us to enhance our volleyball skills and a path to sustain our lives through sports in the future,” said Tshewang Dema, a student of Lungtenphu Middle Secondary School.
The Bhutan Volleyball Federation said the tournament is a platform for young people to utilize their free time productively and stay healthy through sports while keeping them away from drugs.
“Currently, we are lacking a platform for them so we are creating a platform for young students who are interested in sports. Secondly, to make their weekend and free time productive and promote a healthy lifestyle through sports. Thirdly, it is to control substance abuse and keep them away from drugs,” said Ugyen Dorji, the programme officer of the Bhutan Volleyball Federation.
The winners will be awarded trophies and medals. The finals will be played this coming Sunday.
Kinzang Lhadon
Edited by Sonam Pem