𝐀𝐧 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐛 𝐆𝐲𝐞𝐥𝐦𝐨

Sherab Gyelmo, a well-known figure in the realm of football, presently assumes the role of head coach at Thimphu Women’s Football Club. Boasting a robust foundation of expertise, Sherab holds both Bhutan Football Federation (BFF) and Asian Football Confederation (AFC) licenses, featuring her unwavering dedication to the sport. Currently in her second year at the helm of the same club in the women’s national league, Sherab’s coaching prowess shone brightly last season as she steered the team to an impressive second runners-up position. Prior to her leadership role, Sherab played a vital role in advancing Bhutanese football, contributing as a grassroots coach in Trongsa Dzongkha for a commendable five-year period. Armed with an impressive track record and an abiding passion for the game, Sherab Gyelmo stands as a prominent force propelling women’s football in Bhutan forward.

Q. How long have you served as the head coach?
A. I have been coaching for approximately six years. I initially applied for a position at the Bhutan Football Federation, where I focused on training young players. In the beginning, most of the athletes were small kids. Following that, I transitioned to coaching youth players. Subsequently, I spent five years in Trongsa, coaching students from eight different schools.

Q. Can you describe your artistic style?

A. In the past, all forms of art adhered to traditional styles, whereas today, there is a fusion of traditional and modern elements in artistic expressions. I, too, embrace the approach of blending traditional and modern art styles.
Q. What experience and knowledge did you acquire during your five years in Trongsa?

A. During my tenure as a coach in Trongsa dzongkhag, I accumulated significant experience and knowledge. I engaged with various teachers and students, discovering that in certain schools, there was limited awareness and understanding of football. While the students were familiar with the concept of a football, they lacked information about rules and other essential aspects. Many of them played with makeshift balls crafted from plastic or socks. We supplied proper balls, imparted instructions on playing, and received gratitude from the students who exhibited keen interest in football. These encounters constituted some of the valuable experiences and knowledge I acquired.

Q. In what ways does the role of a head coach differ from that of a coach, and what challenges are typically associated with being a head coach?
A. While I served as a coach in Trongsa dzongkhag, I encountered minimal difficulties, thanks to substantial support from the locality. However, in my current role as the head coach of the Thimphu Women’s Football Club, I encounter challenges. Some players are adults without fundamental football knowledge and practice, making their training a bit challenging. Nonetheless, effective communication and consistent practice have helped mitigate these issues over time.

Q. Could you provide information about obtaining the AFC- BFF Coaching Convention License? What documentation and procedures were involved in the application process?
A. Acquiring the AFC-BFF Coaching Convention License involves several steps. Initially, one must attend the grassroots course, and upon completion, individuals are invited to participate in the C license program. To obtain the C license, a test must be successfully completed. Subsequently, there are further advancements to the B license and A license, each requiring a month-long training session and a corresponding test for qualification. This progression is akin to the grade system in civil service jobs, but in football coaching, we refer to it as license upgradation.

Q. Do you anticipate increased success and support for women’s football in our country in the future?
A. I believe that women’s football in our country will experience increased success and support in the near future. During my time, resources were limited, and we had to share a small number of balls among a team of 11 players. Contrastingly, nowadays, individual players receive their own balls for training and practice. There has been a notable improvement in skill development and techniques, as players now have the opportunity to train with coaches. In the past, the scarcity of coaches resulted in many players lacking essential skills and techniques. The landscape of women’s football has evolved significantly, with a rise in the number of teams and clubs, indicating a growing interest and investment in the sport. This positive trajectory leads me to believe that women’s football will continue to thrive in the future.

Q. What are your aspirations for the future?
A. As time passes, I will inevitably age, limiting my ability to coach extensively. However, I aspire to establish a club similar to the one I currently coach and, if feasible, continue coaching within that framework.

Q. As a coach, do you find time to spend with your family and friends?
A. Certainly, I have ample time available. Coaching typically takes up just two hours per day, usually in the evening whenever we secure the training ground. The remaining time is dedicated to spending moments with my family and friends.

Message:

I would like to convey to all the young individuals that they currently have an excellent opportunity to train and practice extensively. This will pave the way for smoother pursuits in their chosen fields in the future. It’s crucial to prioritize education, considering that even with limited education, I was given the chance to serve as the head coach. Envision the even greater opportunities that can arise with a strong educational foundation. Additionally, don’t overlook the importance of accumulating practice and experience, as they will prove beneficial in the long run.