In a country where traditional values often limit girls’ participation in sports, the Girls Positive and Safe Coaching Pathway is making a transformative impact. Coach Naresh Rawal, who has been dedicated to promoting female empowerment through sports for over two decades, exemplifies how the Pathway is helping coaches and athletes in remote areas of Nepal.
Naresh, who runs the Stag Saroj’s Table Tennis 4 All Club, has long been an advocate for girls’ participation in sports. Through events like My Gender, My Strength and Right to Play, he has worked to break down barriers and provide opportunities for girls in communities that have traditionally resisted female involvement in sports.
Recently, Naresh participated in the Girls Positive and Safe Coaching Pathway workshop organized by the ITTF Foundation. Reflecting on his experience, Naresh shares how the training was a turning point in his journey as a coach.
The Pathway training was wonderful and full of practical knowledge. It directly reflected the struggles girls face in my club, and I’m deeply thankful for this opportunity.
For Naresh, the workshop was more than just a learning experience—it was a powerful tool that reinforced his mission. The workshop provided Naresh with new tools to address the psychological, physical, and social challenges girls face in sports. Eager to apply these insights, he began empowering the girls in his club to overcome the barriers they encounter both on and off the field.
The training provided me with valuable information on how to motivate, tackle different situations, and encourage more girls to participate in sports.
Despite these positive steps, Naresh recognizes that there is still much work to be done. The roadblocks to female participation in sports in Nepal are deeply ingrained. “Nepalese society still holds onto traditional values and orthodox thinking. Many families are reluctant to allow their daughters or sisters to participate in sports,” he explains. “Though I’ve seen some changes in mentality, there are still many issues that need to be addressed.“
Naresh remains determined to keep pushing forward. He continues to use the tools and knowledge gained from the Pathway training to advocate for girls’ participation in sports. He works tirelessly to convince parents of the benefits of sports for their daughters, focusing on how sports can enhance not only physical health but also mental and social strength.
I always try to spread a positive message in society. Thanks to the Pathway, I’ve been able to strengthen my efforts and increase the number of girls participating in sports day by day.
Coach Naresh Rawal’s journey is a powerful example of how the Girls Positive and Safe Coaching Pathway is driving change. By addressing the unique challenges faced by female athletes and providing practical solutions, the Pathway is helping to create safer, more inclusive environments where girls can thrive in sports.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the ITTF Foundation, Naresh, and all those involved in making the Girls Positive and Safe Coaching Pathway a success in Nepal and beyond!
Girls Positive and Safe Coaching Pathway 