Puspa Lal Sharma Speaks After Being Announced as
Head Coach of Butwal Lumbini FC for Nepal Super League
Reading Time: 7 Minutes
In conversation with Victor Gurung, Media & Technical Lead Consultant, Coach Puspa Lal Sharma reflects on his remarkable journey in football. Both Victor and Coach Sharma share a special bond from their time working together as colleagues at Paro FC.
With over 15 years of experience in sports coaching and physical education, Puspa Lal Sharma has emerged as one of Bhutan’s most respected football minds. Renowned for his analytical approach and results-driven methodology, Sharma has devoted his career to advancing coach education, identifying emerging talent, and fostering player development, leaving a lasting impact on the growth of football in Bhutan and beyond.
His journey began as a Health & Physical Education teacher, before transitioning to a university lecturer, ultimately dedicating himself fully to football. As the Technical Director and Head Coach of Paro FC, Sharma played an instrumental role in nurturing grassroots football, mentoring young athletes, and leading the club to multiple Bhutan Premier League titles. His expertise extended to the Bhutan Men’s National Team, where he served as Director of Football and Assistant Coach, contributing significantly to Bhutan’s historic achievements in the South Asian Games and AFC competitions.
Certified with the AFC Pro Diploma, Sharma has received several distinguished accolades, including the Bhutan Football Federation’s Best Grassroots Football Leader Award (2023) and multiple President’s Coach of the Year Awards. His commitment to football education, tactical innovation, and youth development has elevated club football and laid a strong foundation for Bhutan’s presence on the international stage.
Now, as he takes on the role of Head Coach for Butwal Lumbini FC in the Nepal Super League, Sharma brings his wealth of experience, passion, and leadership to Nepalese football. His mission remains unwavering: to develop players, create winning teams, and continue inspiring football excellence beyond borders.
Your journey in football has been remarkable, from leading Paro FC to multiple Bhutan Premier League titles to now taking charge of Butwal Lumbini FC. Can you share with us what this journey has meant to you and what inspired you to take this next step in Nepal?
My journey in football has truly been a dream come true. Leading Paro FC to multiple Bhutan Premier League titles was an experience I’ll always cherish. Each victory and challenge helped me grow, and I take immense pride in the progress we made as a team. But stepping into the role of Head Coach for Butwal Lumbini FC is a new and exciting chapter. I’ve always been someone who loves to push boundaries and embrace challenges, and this move to Nepal is about expanding my horizons and testing myself in a new footballing environment.
The passion for football in Nepal is incredibly inspiring. The energy from the fans, the dedication from the players—it’s a football culture that thrives on enthusiasm and commitment. I’m eager to be part of that journey and contribute to the growth of the sport here. This opportunity isn’t just a professional leap; it’s deeply personal for me. I want to take everything I’ve learned throughout my career and share it with the players and community in Nepal. Football has given me so much, and now, I want to give back by helping develop the next generation of talent and elevate the game in this beautiful country.
You have been one of the key figure in shaping Bhutan football as well club football, consistently raising the standards of the game. How do you reflect on your contribution to Bhutanese football, and what legacy do you hope to leave behind?
Reflecting on my contribution to Bhutanese football, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. However, it’s important to emphasize that this journey has always been a team effort. The Federation, the clubs, the players, the coaching staff, and the fans—all of us have worked together to bring about change. For me, the goal has always been to raise the standard of the game. Whether it’s through structured training, tactical discipline, or creating pathways for young talent, every step has been aimed at building a stronger footballing culture.
As I now embark on this new challenge in Nepal, my hope is that my legacy in Bhutan is one of inspiration. I want to be remembered not just for the trophies or accolades but for showing that with hard work, clear vision, and unwavering teamwork, even smaller footballing nations like ours can achieve great things on the international stage. The foundation we’ve laid together is solid, and I truly believe Bhutanese football will continue to grow and make its mark in the years to come. My journey may be taking me to Nepal now, but the heart of my work in Bhutan will always remain with the players, the clubs, and the country that gave me the platform to pursue my passion.
You have been awarded the Best Coach in the Bhutan Premier League multiple times. What do you believe are the qualities that make a great coach, and how do you instill those values in your teams?
Paro FC has dominated Bhutanese football under your leadership. What were the key factors behind your success with the club, and what lessons from that experience will you bring to Butwal Lumbini FC?
Moving to Nepal marks a new chapter in your coaching career. What challenges and opportunities do you see in Nepalese football, and what excites you most about coaching in the Nepal Super League?
Nepal is a football-loving nation with enormous potential, and I’m excited to be part of its footballing journey. The challenges are definitely there—the league is highly competitive, and the expectations are understandably high. But for me, that’s exactly what makes this opportunity so exciting. The passion the fans have for the game, the talent among the players, and the overall vibrancy of the football culture in Nepal is inspiring.
I see the Nepal Super League as a real platform for growth—both for the players and for the game itself. There’s so much room to develop and elevate the sport, and I’m thrilled to be involved in that process. The opportunity to work with new players, experience a different footballing environment, and contribute to the continued growth of football in Nepal is something I’m eager to embrace. Every challenge presents a chance to learn and grow, and I look forward to the journey ahead. The excitement of coaching in this dynamic and passionate football environment is what drives me to give my best every day.
Many young footballers and aspiring coaches in Bhutan look up to you. What message would you like to share with them about hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence in football?
Bhutanese fans have immense respect for you, and your departure is bittersweet for them. What would you like to say to the players, fans, and the football fraternity in Bhutan as you embark on this new journey?
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