Kohima, Oct. 18 (EMN): Government High Secondary School of Jalukie emerged as the champions at the state level GHSS Sepaktakraw championship held at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima on Wednesday.
GHSS Jalukie defeated Rüzhükhrie GHSS in the final to lift the title. The two losing semi-finalists were GHSS Phek and GHSS Zunheboto.
All the eleven districts participated in the one-day tournament organised by the Directorate of School Education.
Earlier, the inaugural function was graced by Wonthungo Tsopoe, director of School Education as the chief guest. In his address, Tsopoe urged the need to advocate the importance of sepaktakraw in the schools stating it (Sepaktakraw) is one sports discipline where Nagas can excel.
Observing that sepaktakraw is growing up to be an important sporting event in the State, he encouraged the students by stating that it is the right time to take keen interest in this very game which has great future for the Nagas.
“Sepaktakraw was introduced in the state a decade ago. Therefore, try to advocate this new discipline as its suits our physical appearance,” Tsopoe said adding that “the participation of all the eleven districts speaks volume that there is keen interest among the people.”
Tsopoe also lauded the Naga sepaktakraw players who have brought laurels to the state through their performance in the higher level, while he advised the students to partake in games and sports with true sporting spirit and further to inculcate good discipline.
The programme, chaired by Vitsolie Keyho, commenced with invocation pronounced by Mesehol.
An exhibition match was also played before the start of the tournament with the participation of some Naga sepaktakraw players who have participated at the higher level.
The closing function was graced by Limawabang Aier, mission director, RMSA, as the guest of honour, while T. Lipok Jamir, deputy director of PE tendered the vote of thanks.