Author: Babyla Bhutia
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.70798/Bijmrd/04100008
Abstract: Women’s participation in football has increased considerably in India, with greater emphasis being placed on grassroots development, organized competitions, coaching, and opportunities for female athletes. Sikkim, with its strong football culture, has also witnessed growing participation of girls and women in the sport. Soreng district has emerged as an important area for football development through coaching programmes, sports infrastructure, girls’ football initiatives, and women’s competitions. However, women football players may continue to experience challenges related to regular participation, access to specialized coaching, infrastructure, financial support, geographical accessibility, education, and long-term career opportunities.
The present paper is a narrative review examining the challenges and opportunities for women football players in Soreng, Sikkim, with particular focus on four areas: participation, training, infrastructure, and career development. Information from government initiatives, football development programmes, and available literature was reviewed and organized thematically. The review indicates that Soreng has several positive opportunities, including government-supported coaching programmes, development of sports facilities, the State Sports Academy for Girls, participation in national-level competitions, and the emergence of women’s football leagues. At the same time, continued development requires regular competition, qualified coaching, athlete-support services, financial assistance, educational support, and clearer pathways towards higher-level and professional football. Strengthening collaboration between educational institutions, football clubs, government departments, and football associations can contribute significantly to the sustainable development of women’s football in Soreng.
Keywords: Women’s Football, Soreng, Sikkim, Participation, Coaching, Infrastructure, Career Development, Female Athletes.
Page No: 68-80