The 2nd Inter-Khelo India Centre U-15 Badminton Tournament began in Pfutsero with 72 young athletes competing, inaugurated by MLA Dr. Neisatuo Mero.
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KOHIMA — The 2nd edition of the Inter-Khelo India Centre (KIC) Under-15 Badminton Tournament under the aegis of the Department of Youth Resources and Sports (YRS) is underway at the Multi-purpose Indoor Stadium, Pfutsero.
The two-day tournament’s opening ceremony on Tuesday was attended by Dr. Neisatuo Mero, member of the legislative assembly (MLA), as the special guest.
Addressing the event, Dr. Mero encouraged the young players to embrace three key virtues of hard work, consistency, and discipline. Sharing from his own life experience, he said it was through hard work and consistency that he was able to reach where he is today.
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He acknowledged the Department of YRS and the state government for bringing the tournament to Pfutsero.
Dr. Mero appreciated the dedication and effort of the young athletes, stating that their extra efforts to represent their KIC centres are commendable and that their hard work deserves full applause.
He further stressed that success does not come easily but is earned through hard work and consistency. For athletes, he underlined the importance of a balanced diet, personal discipline, and focus in order to perform at their best.
Calling upon the youth to make good choices in life, Dr. Mero reminded them to bring a good name not only to themselves and their families but also to the state and the country as a whole.
Asserting that under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, the state has seen many good changes, he added that the government has been supporting sports and young people in many ways, and because of this support, athletes are now winning more medals at the state, national, and international levels.
The legislator said, “This shows that when young people are given the right support, they can achieve great things. It also shows that our youth are full of talent and potential.”
Commending the players who made it to the tournament, he said, “You are already winners by showing up and giving your best.” He further advised them to play with honesty, respect one another, and enjoy the game.
A total of 72 athletes from Phek, Niuland, Wokha, Mokokchung, Zunheboto, Peren, Mon, Kiphire, and Longleng districts are participating in the tournament.
The closing ceremony-cum-prize distribution will take place on September 10 with Rhosietho Ngouri, deputy commissioner (DC) of Phek, as the special guest.