Opining that the country has been an ‘epicenter’ of global interest following the devastating earthquake, Lama claimed that the players will be Nepal’s ambassadors in Bangladesh.
“Participation in an international tournament during time of crisis is an encouragement toward stability. Team Nepal will be on the focal point in Bangladesh and our players; ambassadors.Throughout history, Nepalese have proven their bravery with valor,” said Lama, encouraging the team that is participating in its first official tournament since 1990. “Time has come again to prove ourselves again. Let not melancholy rule us but show our persistence and toughness.”
Nepal volleyball Association President Dan Bahadur Tamang said that the tournament was such an opportunity that Nepal could not afford to miss. Tamang said that the national volleyball team's long-time-serving chief coach, late Keshav Lal Shrestha—who was crushed to death after his house in Kalimati was brought down by the April 25 earthquake—had worked very hard for Nepal’s participation in the tournament.
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Tamang said that the tournament was dedication to his effort.
“Though Shrestha is not among us, our participation is like realizing his dream. He had worked so hard for it. We would like to dedicate this tournament as a tribute to a great soul,” said Tamang.
“Bangladesh assured us to take care of our every minor cost, including traveling to the venue and back to hotel," he added.
Eight teams are participating in the tournament. Along with Nepal and host Bangladesh, Maldives, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan and Kirgizstan are other participating teams.
