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Zhaleo Rio arrives for the opening ceremony of 11-U Kukami Trophy, 1st I Vizheto Chophi Memorial Trophy and 11-U Lhosheli Neho Memorial at Lotovi village in Dimapur on Tuesday.[/caption]
Dimapur, Oct. 29 (EMN): A week-long 11-U Kukami Trophy (men’s football), 1st I Vizheto Chophi Memorial Trophy (men’s volleyball) and 11-U Lhosheli Neho Memorial Trophy (women’s volleyball) got underway at Lotovi village in Dimapur on Tuesday.
The tournament is organised by Kuhuboto Ghakhu Sports Association (KGSA), informed an update received here on Tuesday.
Special guest of the opening ceremony, advisor Sericulture, Excise and Minority Affairs, Zhaleo Rio lauded the KGSA for providing platform to the youngsters to exhibit their talent through the tournament. He termed sports as important aspect in human life stating that it develops a sense of friendliness among the people and help understand each other in many good ways.
He called upon young sportspersons to take up sports seriously with commitment as it has become a profession that can earn them a livelihood but also bring laurels to the state and the country. Noting that Nagas have talent in sports but need proper platform, the advisor urged parents and elders to encourage their children who were interested in sports.
However, he reminded the youth that they need to work hard as 99 percent of sweat is required to succeed in this profession; and only one percent luck. Lauding the Sumi community for maintaining unity and understanding among themselves in every field, he urged them to spread unity to other tribes as well so that the state may move ahead with peace, prosperity and progress.
Earlier in the day, the special guest hoisted the tournament flag. He was accompanied by commissioner of Excise, Tarep Imchen and other party leaders and workers.
Speaking at the event, president of KGKK and head GB, Kawoto Aye said that the tournament is organised annually by KGSA and sponsored by 76 GBs from 24 villages under Kuhuboto area.
GB Lotovi, Tohevi Awomi spoke on behalf of host village and KGSA games secretary Mughaka Swu administered oath taking to the players during the opening ceremony.
A total of 12 teams will play for the championship title in men’s football, and 12 teams each (men and women) in volleyball.
In the opening football match of the tournament, host village Lotovi ‘B’ played against Vihokhu village which ended in a goalless draw.
The state’s football coach and Dimapur District Football Association (DDFA) president, Mughato Sumi will be the special invitee on Wednesday for the commencement of 1st I. Vizheto Chophi memorial trophy (men volleyball) and Lhosheli Neho memorial trophy (women’s volleyball). The finals will be played on November 2.
