Kathmandu, June 27

The Unites States Embassy in Kathmandu has picked up five youth female footballers for the Sports Visitor Programme slated for June 30 to July 12.

Anita Shah of Karnali, Reeya Napit and Shreeya Pradhan of Kathmandu, Sima Lama of Dhanusha and Saraswati Saud of Baitadi will travel to the United States of America under the SVP — an international exchange programme that introduces participants to American culture, leadership, and best practices in sports, from community-based recreational youth play to professional leagues. All Nepal Football Association Member Pema Dolma Lama will accompany the players to USA as the team leader.

“Managed by the US State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and implemented by FHI 360, SVP offers participants the opportunity to experience American society, culture, and values firsthand. The activities include sessions on nutrition, strength and conditioning, gender equity in sport, disability in sports, and team building exercises,” said the Embassy in a release.

Speaking at the SVP launch event today, US Embassy Spokesperson Andie De Arment said: “Programmes like SVP use the universal passion for sports as a way to transcend linguistic and socio-cultural differences and bring people together. Participation in sports teaches leadership, teamwork, and communication skills that help young people succeed in all aspects of their lives.”

“During their two-week stay, participants will learn about female sports in the US and celebrate the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup on the field with American peers. The US Embassy — in partnership with All Nepal Football Association and We United Project — is proud of the five selected participants, aged 15-18, from Karnali to Dhanusha, from farwest to Kathmandu, who represent Nepal’s geographic, cultural, and ethnic diversity,” the release added.