This past May and June, my colleagues and I embarked on a football journey that, despite my own modest skills, became truly unforgettable. A tournament organized by teachers in Woochu, open only to staff, presented an opportunity we couldn't resist. For us, this wasn't merely about winning; it was about much more profound goals.
More Than the Game
Our primary motivations for joining were to inject adventure and relaxation into our busy schedules, strengthen our bonds as colleagues, and boost our physical and mental well-being through active participation and practice. Most importantly, we wanted to create a lasting memory with Lopen Nima Tharchen, a beloved and incredibly sporty colleague who will be leaving us in August. This tournament was a special chance to share one last sporting moment with him.
Lopen Gyembo spearheaded our efforts, forming the team and leading the fundraising. All of us sports enthusiasts eagerly stepped forward. Our former colleagues in Australia always generously contribute, which really helps us out financially. Thanks to Lopen Gyembo and some generous friends, we raised a substantial Nu 20,000, covering our entry fee.
Dedication and Discovery
Most evenings, we gathered on the school playground, training and practicing as best we could. These sessions offered a refreshing break from our demanding days, providing significant physical and mental benefits. While I've never been particularly athletic and often avoided sports during my schooling, I genuinely enjoy games. Watching sports on TV and social media is a favorite pastime. Participating in this tournament, even with my "childish" skills, ensured I was physically active instead of simply sitting in the staffroom or at home.
We were fortunate that most matches were scheduled for weekends, which helped us balance our commitment to the tournament with our teaching duties. Weekday matches would have been tough; finishing games around 9 PM often meant not getting back until late, making the next teaching day a challenge. We were very grateful to the coordinators for the weekend scheduling.
The Woochu Arena Experience
Winding through breathtaking highways and picturesque villages, we finally arrived at our destination. The Woochu Sports Arena, home to Paro FC, is about an hour and a half away. We carpooled, usually in at least three cars. It was heartwarming to see our female colleagues and families often join us, cheering us on and sponsoring refreshments. Even male colleagues who weren't playing supported us in the same way. We made sure to arrive about an hour before each game to recover from the journey, rest, and warm up—a key consideration for teams traveling from afar, not to mention the associated travel risk.
Each time we entered the stadium, we stepped into a world buzzing with energy. We passed through the arena's gym, the vibrant futsal grounds, and bustling cafeterias. Above us, prayer flags fluttered in the breeze, while lush gardens, neatly 'tuffed' green spaces, and posters of Paro FC players and ads welcomed us. For every game, we felt like starsentering the stadium, ready for a major showdown. As soon as we arrived, we settled in, observing the Paro FC training session unfold on the pitch. Through our casual chats and focused gaze, we even picked up a few skills from their impressive drills.
Under the Lights: A Special Feeling
The sun dipped below the mountains, painting the sky in fiery hues, but the real magic began when the stadium lights flickered to life. A collective cheer went up as the bright white glow bathed the pitch, transforming the familiar green into a vibrant emerald carpet. The air, still warm from the day, now held a different kind of energy—crisp, electric, and alive with anticipation.
The shadows stretched long and dramatic, adding an intensity to every sprint and tackle. The roar of the small crowd echoed differently under the vast open sky, amplified and exhilarating. The ball, a blur in daylight, now seemed to almost glow as it zipped across the turf, illuminated by the powerful beams. Every pass felt sharper, every shot more powerful, and every save a heroic feat. Playing under those lights, with the cool evening air on our faces and the world narrowing down to just the pitch, was a feeling of pure, unadulterated joy. It wasn't just a game; it was an experience, a fleeting moment where we felt like professional athletes in our own grand arena.
The Sweet Taste of Success
With immense dedication, hard work, cooperation, and team spirit, we successfully booked our spot in the tournament final. Reaching this stage was a significant achievement in itself, a testament to the journey we had undertaken. We endured and sacrificed, braving long travels, especially the late-night drives through heavy downpours.
Our primary intentions for participating were fulfilled, our supporters' wishes answered, and the contributions from generous hearts certainly didn't go to waste. We achieved a great measure of success, and that brought us immense joy, even though we couldn't clinch the trophy in the final match. Just making it to the final brought a profound sense of satisfaction to all of us. The Royal Academy (TRA) staff ultimately lifted the rolling trophy, while we proudly took home a sum of Nu 30,000 as runners-up. Every drop of sweat, every ounce of pain, and every burst of energy felt completely worth it by the end of each game.
A Perfect End to Our Journey
The final match was truly heartwarming, not just for the game itself, but for the incredible support we received. Our female colleagues, along with the male colleagues who weren't playing, generously sponsored a celebratory dinner, a gesture that deeply moved all of us. Together, we enjoyed a wonderful evening at Jigsel Restaurant in the heart of Paro town, successfully wrapping up everything we had planned.
Our participation was more than worth it. Beyond the benefits to us players, it brought all our colleagues and their families closer, forging even stronger bonds – that's the true power of games. We were incredibly fortunate: no injuries, no travel mishaps, and no dramas on the field. Despite a few minor hitches, everything ran smoothly. A huge thank you to everyone for your prayers and unwavering support.
To truly celebrate our journey, we extended invitations to all our colleagues, their families, and our incredible supporters. It was a wonderful evening dedicated to reliving the shared joy and triumph of what we had collectively achieved. We reminisced about the tournament's highlights, basking in the glow of our success. Our heartfelt gratitude for the supporters' unwavering dedication was expressed, though words often felt inadequate. The hours flew by, filled with laughter, joyful chatter, and genuine camaraderie. A delicious array of food and drinks, sourced from the best the locality had to offer, completed the perfect celebration.
Until Next Time...
As the last of our colleagues and their families departed, the echoes of laughter still lingered in the air, a beautiful testament to an evening truly well spent. The football tournament may have concluded on the field, but its spirit of camaraderie and shared joy found its perfect extension in this celebration. It was more than just a party; it was a powerful reminder of how sports can unite us, creating bonds that extend far beyond the game itself. We wrapped up not just an event, but a season of memories, carrying forward the warmth and strengthened connections until our next adventure.
Disclaimer: Drinking is harmful to your health. Please drink responsibly.
