Our Correspondent
KOHIMA, OCTOBER 26
Kiruphema Youth Organisation (KYO) trounced Prancers, Phesama in the final to emerge as the champions in men’s category of the 3rdOpen Kohima District Volleyball Tournament held at Kohima Local Ground.
The KYO overcame their rivals Prancers by three sets to one and walked home richer with a cash award of Rs. 30,000 along with trophy and citations. The runners-up Prancers were given a cash award of Rs. 20,000 along with trophy and citations.
In women’s event, Shürho Mountain, Kezo Town defeated Elite Sisters Club in the final to lift the trophy. The women’s champions fetch a prize money of Rs. 20,000, while the runners-up received Rs. 10,000. The top two winners in women’s category also received trophies and citations.Earlier in the semis, Kiruphema Youth Organisation downed Kezo Town Youth Society to enter the final, while Prancers, Phesama defeated Striking 10th Zhadima to make it to the final in men’s event.
As for women, Shürho Mountain, Kezo Town overcame Elixir Club, Kezoma to make it through to the final, while Elite Sisters Club overpowered Khonoma Youth Organisation to enter the final. All the four losing semifinalists of both categories also received Rs. 5,000 each.
In men’ individual category, the best spiker was awarded to Vikehiezo of Prancers, Phesama, while Lhouvizolie Vielie of Kiruphema Youth Organisation bagged the title of best setter. In women’s category, Khavili Kivi of Elite Sisters Club and Mhasivino Kuotsu of Elixir Club, Kezoma bagged the title of best spiker and best setter respectively. All the individual award winners received a cash amount of Rs. 2,000 each.
A total of 26 teams, including 18 men’s and 8 women’s teams, took part in the tournament organized by the Kohima District Volleyball Association (KDVA) under the theme “Transcending through sports.”
The closing function was graced by Dr. Neiphrezo Keditsu, chairman, Nagaland State Mineral Development Corporation Ltd, as the guest of honour.
Keditsu in his address advised the players to take up sports seriously with total commitment and dedication.
Happy with the progress of so many talented youngsters in the field of sports, Keditsu urged them “not to remain as seasonal players, but to take up sports with the spirit of professionalism in order to reach the top.”
“Be persistent and committed once you decide to partake in sports. Dedication, commitment and sacrifice will help you to reach higher,” he said trusting his hope on the Naga sportspersons to take the level of sports to a higher level.
Citing the progress of neighbouring State Manipur in the field of sports, the NSMDC chairman said “The sportspersons (in Manipur), through their commitment and hard work, could achieve to a desired level, which in return attracted the interests of Manipur government.”
Though stating that our State still lacks behind in infrastructure, he advised the sportspersons not to be disheartened, but strive harder so that the State government would be prompted to invest towards sports through their achievements.
He urged upon the sportspersons to change their mindset, and not to be wholly dependent on the State government.
Recalling the achievements of some North East sportspersons, such as Bhaichung Bhutia, Mary Kom and Chekrovolu Swuro, Keditsu stated that “they could achieve thus far, not because they have extraordinary talents, but because they remained dedicated, committed and consistent.”
Further stating that there is no dearth of talents among Nagas in the field of sports, Keditsu expressed hope that more Naga sportspersons will shine at national and international levels in the near future.
The closing function was led by Xavier Rutsa as the compere, while Zhavinuo Pielie presented a song.
