Amateur Soft Hockey Association of Nagaland launched in Dimapur with Thrijungliba Sangtam as president; plans for talent search announced.
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DIMAPUR — The Amateur Soft Hockey Association of Nagaland (ASHAN) was officially launched at Shunammite Inn, Dimapur, on Saturday.
The executive committee was introduced during the programme held in the presence of Dr. Aditya Nag, national vice chairman of the Amateur Soft Hockey Federation of India.
The association will be led by Thrijungliba Sangtam as president, Talinukshi Imchen as general secretary, Saotola Chang as special secretary, and Khamliba T Sangtam as treasurer.
Election officer B Setaso Sangtam informed that the elections were conducted, following which the list of office bearers was handed over to the national observer, marking the official constitution of the association through a democratic electoral process.
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Speaking to the media, Dr. Nag stated that with the inclusion of Nagaland, Soft Hockey state-level associations are active in 21 states. He announced that Talent Search Programmes and Referee Training Programmes will be launched in Nagaland, providing local youth with opportunities to progress in the sport.
Dr. Nag remarked, "It is a matter of great happiness that Soft Hockey is a modern, safe sport inspired by traditional games of tribal communities. As Nagaland is a tribal region, genetically strong and talented players will emerge from here, bringing glory to the state and the nation at national and international levels."
He added that the sport promotes discipline, teamwork, fitness, and leadership and can be played in rural areas with minimal resources.
He mentioned that plans are underway to organise seminars in schools and colleges and to approach the state government for support in promoting and institutionalising Soft Hockey across the state.
Meanwhile, general secretary Ramesh Singh informed that an annual sports calendar will be prepared for the state, under which all activities will be systematically conducted.
He added that the tehsil, district, state, and national championships will be organised accordingly and also announced that the 'Har Ghar Hockey Abhiyan' (Hockey in Every Home Campaign) will be launched soon to take the sport to the grassroots.
The newly elected president, Trijungliba Sangtam, expressed his commitment to taking Soft Hockey in Nagaland to new heights and stated that he would dedicate his body, mind, and resources to guiding the organisation in a positive direction.