Can you detail your journey in football, from your earliest involvement to becoming the Technical Director of Transport United FC? What were the pivotal moments?

Response: My journey in football began at a young age, where I started playing in the national squad for both the youth U-19 and senior teams from 2000 onwards. Spending seven years representing my country, I transitioned into coaching after my playing career. In 2007, I joined the Thimphu district coaching team and later assumed roles such as head coach for the U-19 boys. Eventually, I served as the Assistant National Coach alongside foreign coaches. In 2015, I was appointed as the head coach for the senior women’s national team and also headed the women’s academy in Gelephu. Progressing through various roles, I became the Officiating Technical Director in BFF in 2018 and fully managed the Elite Youth program from 2019 to 2020. Following this, I served as the Technical Director in BFF until the end of 2022 when I joined Druk Lhayul FC. After a year there, I moved to Transport FC as Technical Director.

Every technical director has a philosophy that guides their decisions and strategies. Could you share yours and how it influences the development programs at Transport United FC?

Response: In football, having a philosophy is crucial as it sets the right track for team development and youth progression. Drawing from diverse training and learning experiences, I’ve crafted programs tailored to youth and grassroots development. This philosophy guides our approach at Transport United FC.

How have you seen football change over the years, and what adaptations have you made in your approach to keep up with these evolutions?

Response: Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors like Mr. Jigme N Norbu, Mr. Vincent Subramaniam, and Mr. Ugyen Wangchhuk, whose guidance has been invaluable. Their insights have helped me integrate new strategies and adapt to the evolving landscape of football.

Throughout your extensive career, who have been your mentors, and what are the most valuable lessons they’ve imparted that you carry into your current role?

Response: Achievements such as receiving recognition from AFC in 2019 have been pivotal moments in my career. These successes highlight the importance of commitment, teamwork, and the systematic approach to training.

What do you consider the most significant challenge facing youth football development today, and how is Transport United FC addressing it?

Response: The need for robust grassroots programs and creative, knowledgeable youth coaches is crucial for youth football development. At Transport United FC, we aim to address this challenge by developing our unique training curriculum tailored to the needs of our youth players.

Looking back at your career, can you share a moment or achievement that stands out as particularly rewarding or transformative?

Response: The commitment and support from everyone involved in my journey have been incredibly rewarding. Establishing systematic training methods has been transformative, ensuring continuous improvement in performance.

With your wealth of experience, where do you see the potential for growth in Bhutanese football, and how is Transport United FC positioning itself to be at the forefront of this progress?

Response: There’s immense potential for growth in Bhutanese football, and Transport United FC aims to be a championship team during my tenure. We’re positioning ourselves to lead the way in driving this progress.

What key attributes do you look for in young players, and how does the academy nurture these talents to prepare them for professional football?

Response: Attributes such as dedication, resilience, and a forward-thinking mindset are crucial in young players. Our academy focuses on instilling these qualities and providing opportunities for continuous learning and growth.

Besides serving as the Technical Director, you also coach the women’s club team. What advice do you have for aspiring female players?

Response: I advise aspiring female players to work hard and seize opportunities. Gender equality is essential, and at Transport United FC, we ensure equal treatment and opportunities for all players.