69th National School Games Taekwondo U-14 Boys Championship begins in Chümoukedima

DIMAPUR — The 69th National School Games Taekwondo U-14 Boys Championship commenced at K Kire Stadium and IPS Badminton Stadium, Police Complex, Chümoukedima, on Tuesday.

The three-day championship is hosted by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports and will conclude on October 30.

Speaking at the inaugural programme as the special guest, Advisor for Tribal Affairs and Election, H Tovihoto Ayemi, said that the event was not merely a sporting competition but a celebration of youthful energy, national unity, and the unyielding spirit of sportsmanship that binds the participants together as one people and one nation.

He said that the championship represents a proud moment for Nagaland, a state whose people have long embodied strength, discipline, and perseverance. He acknowledged the efforts of the NDA government for successfully hosting several prestigious national-level sporting events, including the championship.

Also read: Three-day Baptist Youth Fellowship Shamator Town Gospel Olympic concludes

Ayemi said that the achievement stands as a testament to the state’s capability, dedication, and growing reputation as a leading sporting destination in the northeastern region. He also expressed appreciation to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for his vision, leadership, and support in promoting sports and youth development in the state.

He further mentioned that Nagaland’s growing stature as a centre for sporting excellence is a matter of great pride and that Naga youth, full of talent and determination, are supported by a network of committed administrators, coaches, and institutions who work tirelessly to nurture their abilities.

Ayemi asserted that taekwondo, as a sport, embodies qualities that go far beyond physical strength. He said that it teaches respect, humility, perseverance, and self-control—values that shape character and leadership in every walk of life.

He encouraged the participants to compete with integrity, uphold the spirit of fair play, and demonstrate respect for their opponents, adding that true sportsmanship lies not merely in victory but in how honourably they strive for it.

Guest of honour Deputy Inspector General of Police (Border) Imnalensa said that the event was not only a championship but a celebration of the diversity of the country.

He stated that in life as well as in any sport, the opponent is not the person standing across one’s competitor but oneself—one’s own doubts and fear of failure.

He added that every battle is fought twice—once in the mind and again on the actual battlefield—urging the participants to conquer their fear and doubts and to maintain a positive attitude.

“We cannot change the circumstances we were born into, but with the right positive attitude, we can change what we become,” he said.

Participants from 30 states and union territories, along with five additional units affiliated with the CBSE under the School Games Federation of India (SGFI), are taking part in the championship.

Nearly 400 individuals, including about 310 athletes and around 75 coaches, managers, and heads of delegations, are participating in the event.