𝐃𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐩𝐞𝐥𝐚 𝐈𝐧𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐮𝐫𝐟-𝐀 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐞-𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐛𝐚𝐥𝐥

…𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒔𝒕𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒓𝒊𝒕, 𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒄 𝒈𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒕𝒉, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒕𝒉 𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒊𝒏 𝑫𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒏𝒂 𝑫𝒛𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒌𝒉𝒂𝒈

By KezangChoden

The long-awaited artificial turf in Dagapela under Dagana Dzongkhag was officially inaugurated by the President of the Bhutan Football Federation (BFF), Ugen Tshechup, along with the National Council representative of Dagana Dzongkhag Birandra Chimoria, the Dasho Dzongda, Lam Neten, other officials of the Dzongkhag, the people of the district, the football federation faculties and the people of the district.

The opening of the new artificial turf on May 23 was met with enthusiasm from the community, with many expressing their excitement about the new playing field. Local football teams and enthusiasts are particularly thrilled about the improved conditions the turf offers, ensuring a consistent and high-quality playing surface regardless of weather conditions.

Phuntsho Wangdi, Director of Media and Marketing of BFF, said, “The total budget for the project was 2.4 crores, with funding and support from FIFA and Dagana Dzongkhag. The construction of the artificial turf was one of the most challenging projects undertaken in Bhutan due to its geographical location and logistics.” Phuntsho emphasized that the new facility is expected to lead to increased youth engagement, a boom in the local economy, and significant health benefits for the community. “While there are plans to cover other districts with similar projects, the implementation will depend on the level of football activities in those areas,” he added.

Pelchen Thai, the president of the newly established Daga United Club, announced the formation of the club. The initiative aims to support both students and residents of Dagana, the least developed dzongkhag in Bhutan. “The club debuted with a match featuring 25 players, attracting an enthusiastic crowd of over 1000 spectators who cheered on the players. The main vision behind the creation of the artificial turf football ground is to stimulate economic growth in Dagana Dzongkhag. By upgrading players’ skills and providing motivation, the club seeks to foster a thriving sports culture and economic development in the region,” shared Thai.

Kishore Chhetri, Statistical Officer of the Dzongkhag Sports Association, said, “The construction of the new football ground is set to enhance community engagement and social cohesion, particularly through youth engagement. By providing a safe and suitable playing surface, it supports the development of local talent and entertainment for all.” Promoting physical activity, the new facility is expected to be a hub for sports participation, contributing to the overall well-being of the community. The new football ground represents a significant investment in economic development, offering a platform for both sports enthusiasts and the broader community to thrive.

Sangay Phuntsho, the school’s Sports in-charge of Dagapela Middle Secondary School, highlighted that the consistent and safe playing surface of the artificial turf allows for more effective teaching of sports skills and techniques. The improved practice conditions are expected to reduce injuries, enabling students to play in various weather conditions without the risk of muddy or slippery grounds. Phuntsho said, “Frequent practice sessions on the turf will contribute to better skill development, fostering a more robust sporting environment. The artificial turf field is not only a boon for the schools but also a valuable asset for community events and local sports leagues.”

The Dagapela artificial turf is set to become a cornerstone of the school’s physical education program, significantly benefiting students and the broader community. Additionally, plans are underway to construct more comfortable seating for the spectators, enhancing their viewing experience. Importantly, players currently do not have to pay to use the artificial turf football ground, making it accessible for all.

Namgay Dorji, the school’s sports in-charge of Drukjegang Higher Secondary School, said, “The introduction of the new artificial turf ground offers a multitude of benefits to the students’ health and the overall quality of sports education. Unlike natural grass, artificial turf provides a consistent playing surface, significantly reducing the risk of injuries caused by uneven terrain. Coaches and educators can now conduct training without the hindrance of weather-related disruptions or the limitations posed by worn-out natural grass fields.”

Additionally, the adoption of the artificial turf ground not only promotes physical well-being but also elevates the standards of sports education and enhances the capabilities of school sports teams. The benefits of this initiative are manifold, promising a healthier and more dynamic sports environment for students and sports enthusiasts of the dzongkhag.

The opening ceremony was followed by an exhibition match between the local players of Dagana and BFF officials. Later, the first-ever match of BoB Bhutan Premier League at Dagana Dzongkhag is scheduled to be played between Daga United FC and Tensung FC.