By a Staff Reporter
Kathmandu – The Women’s and Men’s National Volleyball teams have begun receiving monthly salaries for the first time in the history of volleyball in Nepal. The Nepal Volleyball Association (NVA) amidst an event held in Kathmandu on Tuesday, distributed salaries covering three months to the national players.
A total of 12 male and 12 female players, currently in the National Team were the beneficiaries of this financial support. Each player received a monthly salary of NRs. 5000, thanks to the generous contribution of former national player Ram Shrestha, now residing in the United States.
This initiative was made possible through the collective effort of former national players and successful business entrepreneurs from the USA who recognized the need to provide financial stability to the national athletes.
The NVA distributed the salaries for the months of September, October, and November during the event.
The skipper of the Nepal National Women’s Volleyball Team Aruna Gurung, expressed her delight at receiving a monthly salary for the first time in her illustrious playing career. She conveyed her gratitude, saying, “Firstly, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the NVA for taking this groundbreaking step to boost the morale of players. It’s been nearly fifteen years since I embarked on my volleyball journey, and receiving a salary for the first time fills me with joy. I sincerely thank Ram Shrestha and the NVA for making this possible.”
Maan Bahadur Shrestha, the captain of the Nepal National Men’s Volleyball Team, also extended his heartfelt thanks to the association for this monumental stride. He remarked, “I am thrilled that the culture of salaries in volleyball has taken root during my tenure as captain. I want to express my gratitude to the executive committee of the NVA, and we will always remember this tremendous leap forward.” He continued, “Former players residing in America have empathized with our situation and decided to support us. I extend my sincere thanks to all for your unwavering support.”
With the 19th Asian Games in China just around the corner, Nepal’s women’s and men’s volleyball teams are in close training camps, gearing up for the prestigious competition. This newfound financial support not only elevates the morale of the players but also underscores the commitment of the NVA and the solidarity of former players and entrepreneurs in nurturing Nepal’s volleyball talent.