Lahaul valley hosts first ice hockey training camp

In a significant initiative aimed at promoting ice hockey in the Lahaul valley of tribal district Lahaul and Spiti, a seven-day ice hockey training camp was organised at Government Senior Secondary, Keylong. The event, organised by the Keylong Panchayat and the Ice Hockey Association of Lahaul Spiti, witnessed the participation of local youth and children from the region. This marks the first-ever ice hockey training camp in the Lahaul Valley, a region where winter sports are gaining attention.

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The training camp was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Rahul Kumar, who expressed his support for the efforts being made to promote the sport in the region. On the occasion, Sonam Jangpo, pradhan of the Keylong Gram Panchayat, shared that the Ice Hockey Association of Lahaul Spiti had been working relentlessly to encourage the youth of the area to take up the sport. He added that this initiative was a result of hard work, including training in extremely cold conditions, to give children the opportunity to participate in ice hockey at local, state and even national levels.

Sonam Jangpo also highlighted the success of similar initiatives in the Spiti Valley, which have led to young athletes representing the region in national competitions. He expressed his optimism that this training camp in Keylong would provide more opportunities for local children, both boys and girls, to excel in the sport.

Around 50 children participated in the inaugural training programme, which is being conducted by experienced coaches from the Ice Hockey Association of Lahaul Spiti. The children are being trained in various skills to help them improve their game and build their physical and mental strength.

DC Rahul Kumar, chief guest at the event, lauded the efforts of the organisers and encouraged the children to actively pursue ice hockey, stressing that they should aim to represent their state and country at higher levels. He also emphasised that the district administration stands firmly with the public in promoting winter sports and other athletic activities.

Principal Ramesh Lal, DP Sonam, and Vice-Pradhan Nawang Chhering were also present at the event, alongside other dignitaries. District Council member Kunga Bodh from the Keylong ward extended congratulations and thanks to the Keylong Panchayat, volunteers and the Ice Hockey Association of Lahaul Spiti for making the event a success. He stressed the importance of organising such sports events to ensure the physical and mental well-being of children, preparing them for future challenges.

This event marks a step in developing the region’s sporting culture and providing young athletes the platform to shine in ice hockey.