Photo: BSS

By Md Aynal Haque

RAJSHAHI, May 9, 2026 (BSS) - The 'Notun Kuri Sports' initiative is helping uncover sporting talent from rural Bangladesh and one of its brightest new faces is teenage kabaddi player Bina Hembrom from Paba upazila in Rajshahi.

Despite growing up in poverty and facing countless hardships, the seventh-grade student has captured local attention after being named the best player in the district-level girls' kabaddi competition.

At the closing ceremony of the district-level 'Notun Kuri Sports' event held Friday at Muktijuddho Smriti Stadium, Bina earned the "Man of the Final" award for her outstanding performance, bringing pride to her family, school and community.

The ceremony was attended by Land Minister Md. Mizanur Rahman Minu as chief guest. Deputy Commissioner Kazi Shahidul Islam presided over the event, while several public representatives and officials were present as special guests.

Bina lives in the Holde Bona area of Horipur Union under Paba upazila. Her father, Jogen Tudu, works as a day laborer, and the family often struggles to meet basic needs. In such circumstances, access to sports facilities or proper training remained far beyond reach.

Still, Bina refused to abandon her dream.

From an early age, she developed a deep passion for sports. Her speed, courage, and confidence on the kabaddi court quickly made her a key player for her school team. Practicing regularly on the school playground -- often barefoot and without proper equipment -- she continued to improve through determination alone.

"I really love sports," Bina said. "There are many hardships, but I don't want to give up. I want to improve further and one day represent the country."

Local leaders and sports organizers praised her achievement as an example of the untapped talent that exists in rural communities.

Member of Parliament Advocate Shafiqul Haque Milon said Bina's success proves that girls from grassroots backgrounds can excel at the national level if given opportunities and support.

Paba Upazila Nirbahi Officer Ibnul Abedin said the goal of the 'Notun Kuri Sports' initiative is to identify talented children from remote areas and help them develop their potential.

Bina's father expressed pride and emotion over his daughter's success.

"We are poor people, and I cannot do much for her," he said. "But she worked hard and won today. If she gets support, she will achieve even more."

According to Hafizur Rahman, Bina continued practicing every day despite lacking shoes, nutritious food, and professional training. Alongside her studies, she also helped her family with household responsibilities.

Headmaster Rabindranath Pramanik described her as disciplined, hardworking and equally committed to academics and sports.

Sports enthusiasts in the region believe that with proper guidance and support, talented young athletes like Bina can strengthen the future of Bangladesh's sports arena. Initiatives such as 'Notun Kuri Sports' are already creating new opportunities for countless dream-driven children across rural Bengal.