MOKOKCHUNG — The 3rd TM Wati Open Volleyball
Trophy 2024, organised by the Rising Star Sporting Club under the aegis of the
Mokokchung District Volleyball Association (MDVA), got underway at Jungli
Arjuma, Mokokchung village, on Monday.
The three-day tournament was kicked off by guest of honour N
Bendang Jamir, working president of the NDPP.
In his address, Jamir highlighted volleyball’s growing
popularity in Nagaland, emphasising the role of tournaments and active
participation in fostering the sport.
He acknowledged challenges such as the lack of physical
prowess that sometimes limit Naga athletes on the international stage. However,
he urged players to overcome these hurdles by honing their skills and striving
for excellence.
Jamir encouraged the players to pursue their goals with
determination, underscoring the importance of self-reliance rather than
depending solely on government support.
MDVA president Imtipokyim commended the Rising Star Sporting
Club for its consistent efforts to promote volleyball in the district. He noted
that MDVA has over 20 affiliated clubs and lauded Rising Star Sporting Club for
its leadership in fostering a vibrant sports culture in Mokokchung.
He also highlighted MDVA’s significant achievements, stating
that the association has won the inter-district volleyball title 10 times — a
record that buttresses Mokokchung's prominence in volleyball in the state.
Participating teams in this year’s trophy include Kumlong
Sporting Association, Young Spikers, Kijong Lanu, Evergreen Club Ungma, Shipu
Team A, Shipu Team B and Sporting Club Koralong.
