GANGTOK,: Chief Minister PS Golay has expressed his joy and pride over the
selection of Sikkim State women’s football team for the 38th
National Games taking place in Uttarakhand in February 2025.
This
well-deserved nomination is a result of their exceptional performances during
the 2023-24 season of the Senior National Football Championships, said the
Chief Minister on social media.
“This
remarkable milestone marks a historic first for our State, as our women’s football
team has earned the honor of being shortlisted for the National Games. Their
achievement is a testament to their relentless passion, dedication and
commitment to excellence in the beautiful game of football. It also reflects
the rising standards of women’s sports in our State, driven by their grit and
determination,” said the Chief Minister.
“On behalf
of the entire State, I extend my heartiest congratulations and best wishes to
the team. May they continue to shine, inspire, and make us proud on this grand
national stage,” added Golay.
The
football competition under the 38th National Games will be held in
Haldwani, Uttarakhand in February 2025.
Eight top
State teams including Sikkim and the host State Uttarakhand have been selected
for the 38th National Games 2025 based on their performances in the 2023-24
season of senior national football championships.
Meanwhile,
the Sikkim Football Association (SFA) convened a welcoming and congratulatory
ceremony on Friday at the Rangpo Facilitation Centre for the Sikkim Senior
Women's Football Team. The Sikkim Senior Women’s team have returned home after
participating in the final round of the Rajmata Jijabai Trophy 2024 in
Chhattisgarh, followed by their respective performance in the 2023-24 Hero
National Football Championship.
The
celebration featured the attendance of Pamin Lepcha, MLA of Gnathang Machong,
and Erung Tenzing Lepcha, MLA of Rinchenpong. Both the MLAs congratulated the footballers
on their nomination and encouraged them to excel at the national level, an IPR
release informs.
Likewise,
Erung Tenzing Lepcha commended the team's perseverance and underscored their
role as inspirational figures for aspiring athletes throughout the State. He
further emphasised the importance of sports in empowering women and promoting
unity.
The team
expressed heartfelt appreciation to Chief Minister for his steadfast support
and encouragement. The players recognised his guidance and personal involvement
as pivotal elements in their success, the IPR release adds.
Also in
attendance were representatives from the Sikkim Football Association, including
Chung Chung Bhutia (Working President), Chewang Thendup Bhutia (Vice
President), Ms Susan Bhutia (Treasurer), as well as Bhim Kumari Sharma, Samten
Lhamu Lachungpa, Peden Lama, and Renuka Chakraborty.
