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Kathmandu Kickers Players Learn and Grow Through Germany Tour 2026

Young players from Kathmandu Kickers recently completed an exciting and memorable football tour in Germany, where they gained valuable international exposure by competing against different teams and experiencing European football culture firsthand.

Over three intense and enjoyable days, the Kathmandu Kickers players competed in a highly competitive tournament and demonstrated great determination, discipline, and teamwork throughout.

Kathmandu Kickers is proud to share the performance of its different age group teams in the tournament. The E2 (U10) team secured 7th position after playing 11 matches, while the E1 (U11) team finished in 9th position, also playing 11 matches. Meanwhile, the C-Junioren (U16) team achieved 8th position after competing in 8 matches. These results reflect the effort, resilience, and fighting spirit shown by all players across their respective categories.

While the results on the pitch were encouraging, the tour was about much more than football. The experience allowed the players to grow both as athletes and as individuals. Competing in a new environment helped them build confidence, improve communication, and better understand the importance of teamwork and discipline.

One of the most positive aspects of the tournament was the players’ commitment and professionalism across all three days. Despite playing many matches in a short period of time, the squad remained focused and energetic throughout the competition. Kathmandu Kickers is also happy to share that there were no serious injuries during the tournament, allowing all players to enjoy the full experience safely.

The Germany tour also created unforgettable memories and friendships among the players. Spending time together during matches, travel, and team activities helped strengthen their bond both on and off the field.

After spending a week in Germany for training, matches, and tournament activities, the Kathmandu Kickers team is scheduled to return to Kathmandu on May 28.

Kathmandu Kickers remains proud of every player who represented the academy during the tour. Their effort, attitude, and willingness to learn made the experience successful and meaningful. Opportunities like these continue to play an important role in helping young footballers gain international exposure and develop through football.

Kathmandu Kickers Players Set for Germany Football Experience Tour 2026

Kathmandu Kickers is once again taking a group of young players to Germany for an international football exposure tour. The team will travel on May 21 and return to Nepal on May 28, 2026.

This yearly tour is an important part of our player development program. It gives our players the chance to experience football outside Nepal and learn more about the professional football environment in Europe.

kathmandu kickers germany 2026

During the stay in Germany, players will train, visit football facilities, and play matches against strong European academies. These games are usually faster, more physical, and tactically demanding. Competing in that environment helps players improve their decision-making, confidence, discipline, and understanding of the game.

The tour is also an opportunity for players to observe football infrastructure, training culture, and professionalism at a higher level. Experiencing a different football system helps young players return with a broader perspective and stronger motivation to improve.

Apart from football development, the trip will help players become more independent and responsible. Traveling internationally, managing daily routines, adapting to a new environment, and spending time away from home are all valuable life experiences for young athletes. These moments help players grow mentally and personally.

The tour also plays an important role in team building. Spending time together during training sessions, travel, matches, and other activities helps players build stronger relationships and a better understanding with their teammates as well as coaches and staff. Developing trust and communication off the field can also improve teamwork on the field.

Kathmandu Kickers has been organizing football tours to Germany almost every year to provide its players with international exposure. Over the years, these experiences have played an important role in helping our young footballers grow both on and off the field.

kathmandu kickers founder nabin pande and leigh manson in germany bayern munich

We believe that exposure to different styles of football and competitive environments is important for long-term development. We are excited for another valuable learning experience for our players and look forward to seeing them represent Kathmandu Kickers in Germany this year.

Kathmandu Kickers Win Bowl Group at Excelsior U-12 Tournament

Kathmandu Kickers marked an important achievement at the Excelsior U-12 Tournament, organized by Excelsior School, by emerging as Bowl Group Champions.

The tournament, held on April 7 and 8, 2026, brought together young footballers in a competitive environment. Kathmandu Kickers’ U-12 team delivered a brilliant performance throughout the competition.

Under the guidance of head coach Suraj Thapa Magar, the team demonstrated strong coordination on the field.

This result reflects the continued focus of Kathmandu Kickers on building young players through structured training and a disciplined approach to football. Participation in tournaments like this provides valuable match experience and helps players develop confidence in competitive settings.

Kathmandu Kickers remains committed to creating a positive learning environment for young athletes, where development goes beyond results and focuses on long-term growth in football.

The Importance of Respect in Foot

At Kathmandu Kickers, we believe football is not just about skills, goals, or winning matches. It is also about values. One of the most important values we teach our young players is respect.

Respect is what shapes a player into a better footballer and a better person.

On the field, emotions can run high. There will be moments of frustration, disagreement, and pressure. But how a player reacts in those moments defines their character. Respecting referees, opponents, and teammates is not just good behavior. It is a sign of true understanding of the game.

Respecting referees is the first step.

kathmandu kickers referee

Referees are there to ensure fairness. They make decisions in real time, and mistakes can happen. At Kathmandu Kickers, we teach our players to accept decisions calmly and focus on the game. Arguing or showing anger does not change the result. Instead, it affects concentration and team performance. So, respect in football is important.

Respect for opponents is equally important.

Football is competitive, but it should always be played with sportsmanship. Opponents are not enemies. They are part of the game. Without them, there is no match. Shaking hands before and after the game, helping a fallen player, and playing fair are simple actions that show true respect.

Then comes respect within the team.

Teammates are like a second family. Supporting each other, encouraging during tough moments, and celebrating together builds strong team spirit. A team that respects each other always performs better than a team full of individual talent.

kathmandu kickers

For young players, learning respect early makes a big difference.

It builds discipline, improves attitude, and creates a positive environment for growth. These values stay with them not just in football, but in life as well.

At Kathmandu Kickers, we are not only developing footballers. We are building responsible, respectful individuals who understand the true spirit of the game. Because in football, talent may win matches, but respect earns respect.

Why Consistency Beats Talent in Youth Football

In youth football, talent often gets all the attention. A naturally gifted player can dribble past opponents, score goals, and stand out easily. But over time, something interesting happens: the players who show up every day, work hard, and stay consistent are the ones who truly grow.

kathmandu kickers

Consistency is what builds real skill

A talented player might rely on natural ability, but a consistent player improves step by step. They attend every training session, listen to their coaches, and keep practicing even on days they don’t feel like it. These small, repeated efforts slowly turn into strong habits. And in football, habits matter more than occasional brilliance.

At a young age, development is more important than performance

Players who train regularly develop better fitness, sharper decision-making, and stronger discipline. They learn how to handle pressure, recover from mistakes, and stay focused during matches. Talent may give a quick advantage, but consistency creates long-term success.

kathmandu kickers gk

Another important factor is mindset

Consistent players don’t give up after a bad game. Instead, they come back stronger in the next training session. They understand that improvement takes time. This mindset helps them stay motivated and keeps their progress steady.

For parents and young players, the message is simple: don’t chase quick results. Focus on regular training, effort, and patience. Football is not just about being the best today; it’s about becoming better every day.

At Kathmandu Kickers, this belief is at the heart of player development. In the long run, consistency will always beat talent when talent fails to work hard.

Kathmandu Kickers’ Pemba Bhote Excels in Nepal U20 SAFF Campaign

When a young goalkeeper rises from a local academy to represent his nation, it becomes more than just a personal milestone. It becomes a story of belief, development, and inspiration. That is exactly what Pemba Nurbu Bhote is writing today in the SAFF U-20 Championship 2026, proudly carrying both Nepal’s hopes and the identity of Kathmandu Kickers onto the international stage.

A Dream Start in the Maldives

Representing the Nepal national under-20 football team in the tournament hosted in the Maldives, Pemba has already made a strong impact between the posts.

Nepal kicked off its campaign with a confident 2–1 victory over Bhutan. While the scoreline suggests a close contest, Nepal showed control and composure, with Pemba playing a key role in organizing the defense and maintaining stability under pressure.

The second match against Sri Lanka highlighted his true goalkeeping quality. Nepal secured a narrow but crucial 1–0 win, and this time, Pemba delivered a clean sheet, proving his reliability in high-stakes moments. His positioning, reflexes, and calm presence ensured Nepal walked away with maximum points.

With two wins from two matches, Nepal has already qualified for the knockout stage, with one group game still to play against the host nation, the Maldives.

From Academy Talent to National Pride

Pemba’s journey is not accidental. It is the result of years of structured training and dedication at Kathmandu Kickers. Rising through the academy ranks, he embodies the very vision the institution stands for: developing disciplined, technically sound, and mentally strong footballers.

His selection as a starting goalkeeper for the national U-20 side is a testament to both his individual growth and the effectiveness of grassroots football development in Nepal.

A Leader Beyond the Goalposts

What makes Pemba’s story even more inspiring is his dual role. Beyond being a national player, he is also a coach at Kathmandu Kickers, where he trains and mentors young footballers.

This rare combination of player and coach reflects maturity far beyond his years. While competing at the highest youth level in South Asia, he is simultaneously shaping the next generation of Nepali footballers back home.

For young players at Kathmandu Kickers, Pemba is not just a coach, but a living example of what is possible through discipline and persistence.

Raising Kathmandu Kickers’ Profile Internationally

Every save, every clean sheet, and every match Pemba plays in the SAFF Championship is amplifying Kathmandu Kickers’ name beyond Nepal.

From the training grounds of Kathmandu Kickers to the international pitches of the SAFF Championship, Pemba Bhote’s journey is a powerful reminder: great football stories begin with strong foundations.

What to Do If Your Child Compares Themselves to Better Teammates

It’s a situation almost every parent faces in youth sports. Your child comes home quiet after training and says, “They’re better than me.”

At first, it may seem harmless. But constant comparison can slowly damage a child’s confidence in kids and affect not just football, but also school and behavior.

The truth is, comparison is natural. Psychologists call it “social comparison,” and children start doing it from a young age to understand where they stand. But when it becomes a habit, it can lower confidence and reduce enjoyment in sports and studies.

kathmandu kickers venue cupon sports center

Why Comparison Becomes a Problem

In football, kids often compare:

  • Skills
  • Playing time
  • Praise from coaches

But research shows that when children focus too much on others’ strengths, they lose focus on their own abilities and performance. This doesn’t stop on the field. The same child may start thinking: “My friend gets better grades,” “I’m not as smart as others.” Over time, this affects both child development and self-esteem in children.

What Parents Should Do

1. Shift the Focus to Personal Progress

Instead of asking, “Did you win?” ask: “What did you improve today?” This builds a growth mindset, where effort matters more than comparison.

kathmandu kickers parents

2. Normalize Different Growth Speeds

Some kids develop physically or academically faster. That’s normal. Remind your child: “Everyone improves at their own pace.” Even studies show children often choose tougher groups as they grow, because challenge helps development.

3. Connect Sports with Real Life

Explain that football and studies are similar. You don’t become the best overnight. You improve daily. Skills grow with practice, and confidence grows with small wins.

4. Build Identity Beyond Comparison

Help your child see their strengths, such as work ethic, discipline, and team spirit. These matter more than being “the best player.”

5. Be Careful with Your Own Words

Even small comparisons like “Look at him” can hurt. Research shows parental encouragement plays a big role in motivation and long-term participation in sports.

kathmandu kickers

So at Kathmandu Kickers, we understand that every child’s journey is different. Some players shine early, while others grow steadily with time. What truly matters is not how your child compares to others, but how they improve day by day.

Our coaches focus on creating an environment where:

  • Effort is valued over instant results.
  • Mistakes are seen as part of learning.
  • Every child feels supported, both on and off the field.

Because football is not just about producing the best players, it’s about shaping confident, disciplined, and resilient individuals. When children feel safe, encouraged, and understood, they stop comparing and start growing.

Train with Kathmandu Kickers Every Saturday in Madhyapur Thimi, Bhaktapur

We are always looking for ways to give our young players a better training experience. That is why we are happy to share that regular training sessions have now started at Madhyapur Thimi Ground in Bhaktapur.

Outdoor Football Training in Madhyapur Thimi with Kathmandu Kickers

This new training location allows us to reach more aspiring footballers and provide them with the right environment to grow, learn, and enjoy the game.

Our sessions at Madhyapur Thimi Ground take place every Saturday from 2 PM to 5 PM. The training is open for players in the Under-16, Under-14, and Under-13 age groups, ensuring that young talents get structured guidance at the right stage of their development.

One of the key highlights of this training venue is its outdoor pitch. Playing on an outdoor ground is an important part of a player’s development. It helps them adapt to real match conditions, improve their game awareness, and build confidence in different playing environments.

We believe that exposure to different types of pitches plays a big role in shaping a complete footballer. Training at Madhyapur Thimi Ground gives our players exactly that opportunity.

At Kathmandu Kickers, our focus has always been on creating better opportunities for young footballers across the valley. With this expansion to Bhaktapur, we are one step closer to that goal.

If you are looking to take your football journey seriously, we welcome you to join us every Saturday and be part of our growing football family.

Football Positions Explained for Beginners (Parents & Kids Guide)

Football may look simple, 22 players chasing one ball, but every player on the field has a specific role. Understanding these roles helps young players learn the game faster and helps parents follow matches with more excitement. Here’s a simple guide to the main football positions.

Goalkeeper (GK)

kathmandu kickers goalkeeper

The goalkeeper is the last line of defense. Their main job is to stop the opposing team from scoring by saving shots on goal. Unlike other players, the goalkeeper can use their hands, but only inside the penalty area.

Goalkeepers need quick reflexes, good communication, and confidence. They also help organize the defense and start attacks by passing the ball to teammates.

Defenders

kathmandu kickers defender

Defenders play closest to their own goal and focus mainly on stopping the opposition from attacking.

Center Backs (CB):

They stay in the middle of the defense and block strikers from getting clear shots on goal. They need strength, positioning, and good decision-making.

Full Backs (RB & LB):

Right back and left back play on the sides of the defense. They stop wingers from crossing the ball and often help their team attack down the wings.

Midfielders

kathmandu kickers Midfielder

Midfielders are often called the engine of the team because they connect defense and attack. They run a lot during the game and control the flow of play.

Central Midfielder (CM):

Helps both defend and attack, passes the ball around, and keeps the team organized.

Defensive Midfielder (CDM):

Focuses more on protecting the defense by winning the ball back.

Attacking Midfielder (CAM):

Creates scoring chances by passing the ball forward and supporting the strikers.

Forwards (Attackers)

kathmandu kickers striker

Forwards play closest to the opponent’s goal, and their main job is simple: score goals.

Striker (ST):

Usually, the main goal scorer. Strikers need good finishing, positioning, and confidence in front of the goal.

Wingers (RW & LW):

They play on the sides of the attack. Wingers use speed and dribbling to beat defenders and create chances for teammates.

Why Understanding Positions Matters

For young players, learning different positions helps develop well-rounded skills. Many youth academies encourage kids to try multiple roles, so they understand the game better and become smarter players on the field.

Football is a team sport, and every position is important. When players work together and understand their roles, the game becomes more enjoyable and much more exciting to watch.

Kathmandu Kickers Conducts Free Football Clinic for Janakpur Girls

Kathmandu Kickers recently organized a football clinic for young girls at Cupon Sports Center in Kapan, Kathmandu. The session welcomed the same group of girls who had earlier taken part in our football clinic in Janakpur a few months ago.

For many of the girls, this was their first football experience in Kathmandu. The session gave them the chance to train in a new environment, meet coaches, and continue developing their interest in the game.

During the clinic, the players participated in fun training and footballing activities to help them improve their skills and confidence on the field.

Both the Janakpur clinic and the recent session in Kathmandu were organized at no cost as part of Kathmandu Kickers’ effort to make football more accessible to young girls.

It was encouraging to see the players’ enthusiasm and progress. Kathmandu Kickers hopes to continue creating more opportunities like this for young girls across Nepal to learn and enjoy football.