Our Correspondent
Mokokchung, Aug. 11 (EMN):The first inter-ward volleyball tournament organised by Kumlong Sporting Association (KSA) under the aegis of Mokokchung District Volleyball Association (MDVA) got underway at Multi-sports Complex, Mokokchung on Thursday.
The tourney was officially kicked off by Chumlamo Humtsoe, ADC and Administrator MMC, Mokokchung as the guest of honour.
Humtsoe, in his speech, encouraged the players to participate in the tourney with dedication so that they may get a chance to be a part of upcoming Nagaland Olympic and Paralympic Games 2022.
Stating that athletics and sportspersons from neighbouring states are representing the nation at thr International level, he said Nagas have the talent in sports; therefore, they should pursue the path for continued growth through hard work and discipline, with the pure intention to shine at the International podium.
He also added that as sportspersons, they should also give due importance to their health and do away with substances that might bring harmful effects to their body.
He further said that the most important thing in sports is fair play and their participation with the purpose of building friendships with the opponent teams.
Allen Imchen, Vice president MDVA, also spoke at the event. He informed that KSA and MDVA have inked a MoU; and the most important agreement point is that the champion team will be granted free entry in the Imchaba Master Memorial Nagaland Open Volleyball Trophy.
Short speeches were also delivered by S Lanu Imchen Chairman Kumlong Ward Authority and welcome note was said by Mongshin Longkumer President KSA.
Altogether nine teams --Dilong, Artang, Alongmen, Sungkomen, Mongsenbai, Marepkong, Penli, Yimyu and Kumlong -- are participating in the tourney.
In the opening match, Artang registered a convincing win against Dilong. They triumphed 25-11; 25-15. In the second match Sungkomen and Alongmen played an interesting and competitive match which dragged on to the deciding set. However, the experience of Sungkomen players proved to be too much for the young inexperienced Alongmen team. Sungkomen won the match 24-26; 25-16; 25/20
Marepkong got beaten by Penli ward in straight sets in the third match with the score sheet 14-25; 14-25.
The fourth match played between title favorites Artang and a young Alongmen team was a treat for all volleyball lovers. Though inexperienced, Alongmen put up a tough fight taking Artang till the dividing set. But once the deciding set started, the experience of Artang players proved to be a heavy weight for Alongmen and their stiff resistance collapsed. Artang settled the match 25-18; 21-25; 25-19.