On September 23, as the women’s volleyball team of Nepal Police Club was arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport, a larger crowd awaited them.
The Nepal Police orchestra was also there awaiting the players. They were welcomed by representatives of Nepal policies and officials of the sports sector with garlands, khada and abeer.
They were kept in the vehicle and driven around the city.
During the CAVA Women’s Club Volleyball Championship held in the Maldives, Nepal defeated Humo Club of Uzbekistan in straight sets, 3-0, on September 21. Teams from Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Nepal, and two from the Maldives participated in the tournament. Nepal won the title, remaining undefeated.
The welcome the Nepal Police Club received in the TIA made Kamala Pun, captain of the team, emotional.
“We did not have an idea that we would receive such a special welcome. We thought only a few of our relatives would come to welcome us,” says. “We all are very happy.”
This is a very important victory for Nepal’s women’s volleyball, she says.
“Although we played in a departmental club, we all are from Nepal. We also received love from supporters in the Maldives. They cheered for us throughout the matches,” says Pun.
First in first participation
Representing Nepal in the CAVA Women’s Club League Championship, the Nepal Police Club won the title in its first participation.
This title has uplifted the level of Nepal’s volleyball, says Jitendra Chand, President of Nepal Volleyball Association.
“In the first participation, Nepal won the tournament. This indicates that Nepali volleyball is on a strong track,” he says.
Usha Bhandari was announced Best Player and Best Outside Hitter in the tournament.
“By winning this title we have proved ourselves,” says Bhandar. “This title has made me even more responsible.”
The remarkable victory
Earlier, the Nepal Volleyball Association had never been able to send the Nepali team to play in the club championship.
“In the first participation, the players achieved the title. This has enhanced the level of Nepal’s volleyball,” says Jagdish Bhatta, the Chief Coach of the national women’s volleyball team.
To win against strong teams such as Uzbekistan and Tajikistan is a remarkable thing, he adds.
`According to him, sports can be promoted only if the commercial club is strong.
“Nepal’s volleyball will develop if the clubs are more commercial,” says Bhatta.
