Volleyball Foundation
Tribedi Hazarika’s determination and love for volleyball transformed her academic success and inspired her community in Assam.
In the remote village of Lengeri Lahowal in Assam’s Dibrugarh district, there lies a modest room that was once a cowshed. Today, it serves as the Aalok Centre for the Brahmaputra Volleyball League (BVL), where Satrajit, a dedicated Centre Manager, coaches young volleyball players and mentors them academically. In this unassuming space, countless lives have been reshaped—none more profoundly than that of Tribedi Hazarika.
Tribedi’s journey is one marked by resilience and determination. Her father, a diver, earns only $100 a month, providing her family with just the essentials. Yet, her spirit remains strong.
Every day, Tribedi cycles 10 kilometres to the BVL Centre, covering a total of 20 kilometres to attend her training. It is no easy feat, but her passion for the game and her ambition for a better future drive her forward, mile after mile.
Her hard work soon paid off. In just 18 months, Tribedi made great progress in her studies, passing her Class X Board exams with First Division, including scores over 80% in two subjects. Volleyball taught her the discipline, focus, and determination to succeed—not just in sports, but in every part of her life.
However, Tribedi’s achievements did not stop with her studies. This year, she was chosen to represent Assam in the Under-19 state volleyball team, showing her talent and dedication. What started as a way to escape her daily challenges became a path to a brighter future, helping her realise her potential as both an athlete and a student.
The BVL Centre, which began as a cowshed at Satrajit’s home, became more than just a training place. It turned into a safe space where dreams could grow. On nights when practice ran late, Satrajit’s family would invite the girls into their home, offering warmth, shelter, and support.
“In 2021, I joined the Aalok BVL Centre to play volleyball, and at the same time, Satrajit Sir helped me with my studies,” Tribedi shares. “Since then, a lot has changed. I now see life in a new way. I’ve represented my district, and this year, I was chosen for the Assam state team. My ultimate goal is to represent India. Volleyball has given me purpose and determination—it has shown me what is possible in both sports and academics.”
Tribedi’s story is a powerful reminder of how sport can change lives, not just through trophies and awards but through the opportunities it creates. For her, volleyball has been a lifeline, helping her overcome the challenges of poverty and build a future full of hope. As she rides those 20 kilometres each day, she carries not only a ball and a dream but the hopes of her entire community.
