The Spirited Stories of Preeti Rai and Sunita Rai In the heart of Nepal, a young football sensation has captured the imagination of fans across the nation and the internet. Preeti Rai, a 19-year-old dynamo, is often hailed as the “Women’s Messi of Nepal,” a title she has earned through sheer talent and determination. Her iconic goal against Lebanon, which clinched Nepal’s spot in the finals, is etched in the memories of her fans, marking a milestone in Nepali women’s football. Just over the border, Bhutan boasts its own football prodigy—23-year-old Sunita Rai. Hailing from Gomtu, Sunita has been a formidable force in the Bhutan National Women’s Team, participating in high-profile tournaments like the SAF U19 and Saudi Friendly Matches. Last season, she netted an impressive 32 goals for Transport United in the National Women’s League, showcasing her prowess on the field. Sunita’s journey took a historic turn during her first friendly international match in Jordan against Uzbekistan, where she scored her debut international goal, finishing the match in a 2-2 draw. Like Preeti, Sunita’s style of play and her relentless dedication both on and off the field resonate with a spirit that transcends borders. In a recent interview, Sunita shared insights into her life as a full-time professional footballer. “It’s been a challenging journey, breaking barriers and overcoming societal hurdles to pursue sports as a woman,” she reflected. Her family’s unwavering support has been her backbone through this journey. “The sacrifices and dedication it takes to build oneself are immense. If you persist and work hard, success inevitably follows,” Sunita mused. Despite her achievements last season, Sunita remains humble and driven, aiming to surpass her own records. “I’ve trained harder, focusing on improving my weaknesses. With the guidance of our new coaches who are fine-tuning my positioning, agility, and strength, I’m gearing up for what I believe will be my best season yet,” she expressed with confidence. Sunita’s heartfelt thanks extended to the Bhutan Football Federation and Transport United FC for their support and belief in her potential. She also expressed profound gratitude towards her fans, whose cheers and motivation spur her to push harder and aim higher. As we witness these two incredible athletes from neighboring countries, it’s clear that they are not just playing the game; they are changing it, inspiring a new generation of girls to dream big and kick harder. Preeti Rai and Sunita Rai are more than just players; they are pioneers in women’s football in South Asia. Stay tuned for this season, as Sunita Rai promises to bring her best game yet. To all the fans out there, keep shouting and cheering; your voices are heard and appreciated more than you know!
Transport United FC Hosts Anti-Doping Seminar to Foster Clean Sport Culture
Transport United FC Hosts Anti-Doping Seminar to Foster Clean Sport Culture Thimphu, April 29 – In a committed effort to uphold the principles of fair play and athlete health, Transport United FC organized an extensive Anti-Doping Program today for its players and technical team. The event was held at the Hotel Riverside in Thimphu and featured Nima Gyeltshen from the Bhutan Anti-Doping Committee as the resource person. This proactive initiative is part of the club’s ongoing dedication to ensuring that all team members are fully aware of and compliant with anti-doping regulations. The program aimed to educate participants about the types of doping tests, the official Anti-Doping Rule Violations, the testing process, and the severe consequences of testing positive, including the potential to end an athlete’s career. Highlighting real-world examples, Gyeltshen discussed cases of international athletes whose careers were adversely affected due to failing doping tests. He emphasized the risks associated with inadvertent doping, often a result of carelessness or lack of awareness about the contents of common medications. Gyeltshen noted, “While there is no pill for every ill, there is an ill following every pill,” underscoring the dangers of uninformed medication use. An important focus of the session was on the Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) process, which allows athletes to use prohibited substances under strict regulatory approval for legitimate medical needs, as per the World Anti-Doping Code (WADC) 2021. The club’s initiative not only aims to safeguard the health of its players but also to cultivate a culture of integrity and transparency in sports. By equipping its team with knowledge and resources, Transport United FC is taking significant steps towards promoting a clean and competitive sporting environment.
Bhutan Coaches Elevate Skills at Aspire Academy
Bhutan Coaches Elevate Skills at Aspire Academy Coaches from the Bhutan Football Federation recently completed an enriching Performance Module of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Coaches’ Pro-Licence course at Aspire Academy, in collaboration with the Qatar Football Association. From April 21-30, ten Bhutanese coaches, including Head Coach Pema and Technical Director Dorji Khandu of Transport United FC, immersed themselves in a comprehensive learning experience featuring both practical and theoretical sessions led by Aspire’s Football Performance & Science department. This performance module, critical for obtaining the highest coaching qualification, covered a spectrum of coaching essentials, including technology integration and advanced training methodologies in technical, physical, and psychological aspects of football. Head Coach Pema highlighted the module’s effectiveness, emphasizing the substantial knowledge acquired, set to be implemented within their coaching practices. Dorji Khandu expressed his gratitude towards the Bhutan Football Federation and Transport United FC for this eye-opening opportunity, acknowledging the broad scope of studies explored during the course. Readmore: Bhutan coaches thank Aspire, QFA for hosting AFC pro licence coaching module – Gulf Times (gulf-times.com)
Singye Nindak Wangyal, Rising Star
Singye Nindak Wangyal, Rising Star at Transport United We are happy to introduce Singye Nindak Wangyal, the promising substitute goalkeeper for Transport United FC. At just 18 years old, Singye has already made significant strides both on and off the football field. A recent graduate from Hebron School in Ooty, India, Singye is preparing to further his education abroad, specializing in Hospitality Management and Tourism. Singye’s passion for sports ignited early, captivated by football at the tender age of four. By six, he had begun his journey in football, inspired by the dynamic plays he saw on TV. His affinity for the goalkeeper position was influenced by his skills in basketball, believing his ability to grip the ball would serve him well on the football field. Debuting at just 15 during the President Club tournament in 2021, Singye became the youngest player not only in the tournament but also within Transport United. Despite his age, he showcased his skills in a memorable game against Sherubtse College. Family plays a pivotal role in Singye’s life. He regards his parents as his main sources of inspiration and support, while his younger brother remains his biggest fan, continually motivating him to excel. Internationally, Singye looks up to Emiliano Martínez, the Argentine goalkeeper, for inspiration. Locally, he admires Hari Gurung, from whom he has learned invaluable lessons on and off the pitch. Singye’s philosophy is that education and sports are crucial for holistic development. He values the discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills he has gained from football, which complement his academic pursuits. Despite the assumptions some may have about his journey into Transport United due to his father’s presidency of the club, Singye is quick to clarify that his place on the team was earned through hard work and determination. His father’s advice has been clear: respect and a place on the team must be earned through commitment and performance. Looking forward to the BOB Premier League 2024, starting on May 11th, Singye is eager to contribute to the team. While he has spent much time as a substitute, he views this role as an educational opportunity, analyzing plays and learning from his idols to enhance his own game. This season, Singye is particularly impressed with the new management and technical team at Transport United. Their efforts to transform and uplift the club have not gone unnoticed, and he is optimistic about the future. As we gear up for the tournament, Singye extends his best wishes to all teams involved. With his dedication and passion, there is no doubt that he will continue to be a key player in the evolving story of Transport United FC. Join us in cheering on Singye as he pursues both his sporting and academic ambitions with fervor and resilience.
Transport United FC Welcomes Jaypee Group as Premium Sponsor for BOB Premier League 2024 Season
Transport United FC Welcomes Jaypee Group as Premium Sponsor for 2024 Season Wangdue, Bhutan – 30th April, 2024 – In a significant development for sports and football in Bhutan, Transport United Football Club is happy to announce its collaboration with Jaiprakash Associates Limited, known as Jaypee Group, as the premium sponsor for the upcoming season of the BOB Premier League 2024. Jaypee Group, a renowned Indian conglomerate with a notable presence in Bhutan, has been a pioneer in the construction of river valley and hydropower projects across the nation. With a legacy stretching over 24 years in Bhutan, the group has been instrumental in constructing and maintaining major hydropower projects including the Tala, Kholongchhu, and Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Projects. The partnership marks a milestone in the history of Transport United FC as it aligns with a leading infrastructure conglomerate known for transforming challenges into opportunities. This collaboration is not just a sponsorship but a fusion of shared values and visions towards promoting sports and nurturing talent in the region. “Today, we are proud to welcome Jaypee Group to our football family. Their belief in our vision and commitment to supporting sports development is invaluable. We are excited to have their support as we aim to excel in the BOB Premier League 2024,” said Jigme Tshewang, President, Transport United FC. The Jaypee Group’s logo will feature prominently at the top center of the back side of the jersey, symbolizing their substantial support and faith in the club. This partnership is anticipated to bring new opportunities and further the growth of both Transport United FC and football in Bhutan. About Jaypee Group: Jaypee Group is a diversified infrastructure entity with interests in Engineering & Construction, Cement, Power, Real Estate, Expressways, Fertilizer, Hospitality, Healthcare, Sports, Information Technology, and Education. With a reputation for excellence, Jaypee Group has been a leader in infrastructure development in India and Bhutan.
The Transformation of Transport United FC’s Visual Identity
The Transformation of Transport United FC’s Visual Identity In the world of Bhutanese football, Transport United FC has carved out a remarkable journey, transitioning from its modest roots into a professional football club that today stands as a pillar of the sport in Bhutan. As we delve into the archives, it’s clear that the club’s evolution is not just a tale of athletic prowess but also of strategic branding and community engagement. The story of Transport United FC began in earnest around the year 2020, a pivotal time when the club decided to professionalize fully. This decision marked a significant turning point, setting the stage for a series of transformative changes that would redefine its identity and trajectory in Bhutanese football. One of the most symbolic changes during this period was the redesign of the club’s logo in 2020. The previous emblem, which had been in use since 2001, prominently featured elements associated with the Road Safety and Transport United Authority, reflecting the club’s origins and initial sponsorship. This emblem was not just a badge—it was a narrative of the club’s foundational ties to Bhutan’s transport sector. However, as the club evolved and underwent changes in ownership, it became apparent that a new visual identity was needed to reflect its renewed ambitions and the changing landscape of football in Bhutan. The redesigned crest was more than just an aesthetic update; it was a recommitment to excellence and a signal to fans and competitors alike that Transport United FC was embracing a new era. This new crest encapsulated the club’s aspirations and ethos, featuring elements that resonated more profoundly with its vision for the future. It was a blend of tradition and ambition, designed to inspire players, fans, and the community. As we reflect on the journey of Transport United FC from 2020 to today, the transformation is evident not only in its branding but also in the level of play. The club has made tremendous strides in professionalizing its operations, enhancing its competitive edge, and fostering a culture of excellence. The evolution of Transport United FC is a testament to the dynamic nature of football in Bhutan and the club’s dedication to growth and excellence. Looking ahead, the future appears promising, with the club continuously striving to elevate the standard of football and achieve greater successes on and off the field. This journey, marked by significant milestones like the logo redesign, illustrates a club that is both honoring its past and boldly moving forward into a new era of professional football.
Reviving the Spirit: Transport United FC Legacy Reunion
Reviving the Spirit: Transport United FC Legacy Reunion There’s something magical about the journey we’ve shared. From thrilling victories to heart-wrenching losses, each moment has been a stitch in the fabric of our rich history, and it’s a story worth celebrating. But what makes our story truly special? It’s you – our former players, officials, staff, and the unwavering fans who have laid the groundwork for where we stand today. With hearts full of nostalgia and eyes set on the future, we are thrilled to announce the “Transport United FC Legacy Reunion Project.” This initiative is our bridge to the past, a celebration of our shared history, and a call to reconnect with those who’ve laid the groundwork for where we stand today. https://youtu.be/UXsPophdfoo Since our inception in 2021, it’s been 24 years of our journey, and along the way, we’ve realized that we’ve lost touch with many of our legends, former members, and players. This realization has sparked the idea of reuniting with everyone who has been part of our incredible story. Today, we’ve kickstarted a campaign to reconnect with all our fans across the country and abroad. We’ve been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support, with many sending us messages via our various social media platforms. Thank you all for your unwavering support, and we look forward to your continued backing in the future. In our country, we’ve witnessed many of our former players excel in various coaching and administrative roles within the football field. This highlights the club’s role in nurturing and developing their skills. At some point, each of these individuals proudly wore the Transport United FC logo on their chest and played the beautiful game of football. Our objectives for the reunion project are clear: Celebrating Legacy: This reunion is an opportunity to honor the rich history and legacy of Transport United FC, recognizing the achievements and contributions of past players, officials, and supporters. Fostering Camaraderie: Bringing together former players and club members fosters a sense of camaraderie and belonging, reigniting the bonds forged on the field and off. Networking and Connections: The reunion serves as a platform for networking and reconnecting with old friends and teammates, as well as forming new connections within the extended Transport United FC community. Sharing Stories and Memories: Participants will have the chance to reminisce and share stories, anecdotes, and memories from their time with the club, preserving our collective history and heritage for future generations. Inspiring Future Generations: By celebrating the successes and experiences of past players and officials, the reunion inspires current and future members of Transport United FC to continue striving for excellence both on and off the field. The date and venue for the reunion are yet to be confirmed. We kindly request all our former members, officials, players, and fans to reach out to us via email at tufcmarketing@gmail.com or WhatsApp at 17784836 to share their contact details. This will enable us to send you all the invitations for the event.
A New Season Begins for Transport United Women’s Team
A New Season Begins for Transport United Women’s Team With the promise of new beginnings brought by the brisk autumn breeze, the Transport United Women’s Team is getting ready for the forthcoming season with renewed energy and excitement. The players assembled for a special speech from the club president today, marking a momentous occasion at the team’s home field and laying the groundwork for a season full of promise and goals. The President’s visit was more than simply a typical pep talk; it was an intense demonstration of love and support directed right at these committed players. Speaking in front of the pitch’s verdant backdrop, he expressed sincere gratitude for the team’s previous accomplishments and fervent support for the difficulties that lay ahead. The President congratulated each and every player who made the team this season and conveyed his sincere appreciation to the technical staff and coaches whose unwavering work ethic and dedication have molded the club’s success. The women’s team manager, Kinley Wangmo, used the cheers to pause and consider the team’s history as well as the club’s overall philosophy. She talked about legacy and accountability, about wearing the club’s insignia in their hearts as much as on their uniforms. “Our legacy is far greater than the accomplishments of any one season. With the pride and responsibility that come with her position, Kinley underlined, “It’s about making our mark and holding our heads high as we do so.” In a ceremonious moment, the President then presented the official training kits for the season to each player and coach. This year’s kits, designed by Grand Sport, a sportswear manufacturing company based in Thailand, marked a new partnership, transitioning from last year’s supplier, EGO Sports. The new kits shimmered under the clubhouse lights, symbolic of the fresh hopes and renewed dreams of the team. It’s worth noting that Transport United FC stands as the sole official dealer for Grand Sport gear in the region, a testament to the club’s growing influence and expanding horizons. “Our goal isn’t just to play; it’s to excel and make a mark while doing so,” he remarked, igniting a wave of nods and murmurs of agreement among the players. His words weren’t just heard; they were felt. Jigme Tshewang President “Thank you to the entire Transport United family for your unwavering support. It is a profound honor to be a part of this journey, where passion meets purpose. Together, we build more than a team; we forge a legacy of strength, spirit, and sportsmanship. Here’s to achieving greatness, together!” Tshering Wangmo Asst. Women’s Coach
Transport United FC: A Legacy of Passion and Perseverance
Transport United FC: A Legacy of Passion and Perseverance The Transport United FC Legacy Reunion Project is a chance to reflect on our club’s remarkable journey, from its beginnings fueled by passion to its current standing as a force in Bhutanese football. Early Days and Championship Dominance (2001-2011): Our story began in 2001 with Nidup Dorji, a passionate football fan working for the Road Safety & Transport Authority (RSTA). Driven by his love for the sport and a desire to engage young people, Nidup, armed with his AFC B coaching license, founded Transport United FC. Supported by like-minded officials from RSTA, the club received funding and its name, reflecting its roots. Under Nidup’s leadership, the early years were a period of immense success. His expertise as head coach guided the club to an impressive record: four National Championship titles and four qualifications for the AFC President’s Cup, a true testament to the team’s dominance. Challenges and Resilience (2012-2016): The year 2012 brought a significant challenge. Financial difficulties resulted in relegation to the B-division. However, this setback did not dampen Nidup’s dedication. He remained at the helm, managing resources through donations and demonstrating unwavering commitment to the club. It took four years of hard work and perseverance, but Transport United FC finally secured victory in the B-division, earning a well-deserved promotion back to the National League in 2016. Coaching Transitions and Continued Success (2017-2023): Affiliation with the Asian Football Confederation brought new requirements. To compete in the National League, the club needed an A-licensed coach. In 2017, Nidup transitioned to the role of President of the Technical Division, paving the way for Ngawang Dhendup to take over as head coach. This change ushered in another era of victories. Under Ngawang’s guidance, the club achieved remarkable feats, including a National League win in 2017 and an historic double in 2018, becoming the first club to win both the Thimphu League and the National League in a single calendar year. This success was further amplified by qualification for the AFC Cup in both 2018 and 2019. Ngawang’s tenure ended in 2020, and Passang Tshering led the club for a year, securing a respectable 4th place finish. Ngawang Jamphel, fondly known as MJ, then took charge in 2021. Despite the challenges of the pandemic with most games played behind closed doors, MJ’s leadership secured a commendable 3rd place finish. Determined to maintain momentum, Coach Bikash Pradhan was appointed in 2022. The team started strong, winning the first edition of the BFF President’s Cup. However, the league season proved more difficult, resulting in a 5th place finish. In 2023, the club sought to recapture its past glory. Coach Kinley Dorji, formerly the Coach Educator, assumed the role of head coach. The season began brightly with a string of victories, but a slump in performance led to a change in leadership. Lobzang Dorji stepped in as interim coach, demonstrating exceptional resilience and leading the team to an impressive finish in 3rd place, undefeated in their final seven games. Looking Ahead (2024): With a new season on the horizon and Coach Pema at the helm, Transport United FC is fueled by a burning desire to reclaim its championship title. The club’s legacy is one of passion, perseverance, and a dedication to excellence. As we look forward, we draw strength from our rich history, ready to write the next chapter in the Transport United FC story.
Transport United FC Announces Chhundu Sawmill as Official Jersey Sponsor
Transport United FC Announces Chhundu Sawmill as Official Jersey Sponsor Transport United Football Club is thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with Chhundu Sawmill, which will become the official jersey sponsor for the club for the upcoming season. This significant sponsorship agreement marks a new chapter for both the club and one of Thimphu’s most successful local businesses. Club President Jigme Tshewang expressed his gratitude and excitement about the partnership: “We cannot thank Chhundu Sawmill enough for their fantastic support and commitment to our football club. A local company supporting its local community is a powerful statement of trust and unity. Securing one of the most successful local businesses as the Club’s official jersey sponsor is a huge boost for everyone involved. We are eager to kick off this partnership and look forward to building a mutually beneficial relationship over the year.” Chhundu Sawmill has been a pillar in the community, known for its quality products and commitment to sustainable practices. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence and community values, aiming to propel Transport United FC to new heights in the coming seasons. “We are proud to support Transport United FC, a team that has consistently demonstrated resilience, excellence, and community spirit. This partnership aligns perfectly with our values at Chhundu Sawmill, and we are excited to see what we can achieve together,” said Tshering Wangchuk, Proprietor The new jerseys featuring Chhundu Sawmill’s logo will be unveiled at the upcoming season opener, and fans are encouraged to show their support by sporting the new gear. For more information on Chhundu Sawmill, visit their Facebook page at Chhundu Sawmill Facebook. About Transport United FC: Transport United Football Club is a premier football club based in Thimphu, known for its vibrant community involvement and a strong track record in Bhutanese football. The club prides itself on developing local talent and fostering a spirit of sportsmanship and excellence. About Chhundu Sawmill: Chhundu Sawmill is a leading lumber and wood product company in Thimphu, committed to sustainable forestry and quality products. As a locally grown business, it supports various community initiatives, strengthening the local economy and environment.
