Dimapur, Jan. 10 (EMN): The 31st edition of the Old Jalukie village shifting day memorial volleyball tournament 2023 kick started on Tuesday at Old Jalukie village sector with PA to TR Zeliang, Masangum Hiekha, as the special guest.
The tournament is an open event under Peren district being played on league (best of three) and inter-village/town basis. Altogether, 13 teams are competing for the coveted title in the four-day long event.
The opening match was played between defending champions Azailong and runner-up and host village Old Jalukie A, where former defeated the latter in straight sets 25-21, 27, 25.
Speaking at the inaugural programme, Hiekha opined that volleyball is a game to be played indoor, however, due to absence of infrastructure and facilities, most volleyball tournaments in Nagaland are played outdoors. He informed that in Nagaland, there is only one indoor volleyball stadium in Mokokchung. In this regard, he assured to pursue the construction of an indoor volleyball stadium in collaboration with Peren District Volleyball Association (PDVA) through available schemes and project.
The special guest also reminded that there were many facilities and projects in store for young youths and cited the ongoing construction of standard size Astro turf football field at Jalukie town which is on the verge of completion through the initiative of Jalukie Valley Youth Organisation (JVYO).
While calling for unity among various sectors of Old Jalukie, Hiekha reminded thatJalukie has so many.
The special guest also opined that Jalukie town is considered to be the second Guwahati, which was well planned for township with potential landsand space for developmental activities. He observed that, Jalukie has the potential for setting up international airport.
Hiekha further urged the sportsperson to be disciplined and consistent and not to indulge in substance abuse.