State-level Under-14 Sepaktakraw tournament begins in Kohima

KOHIMA — The state-level Catch Them Young Under-14 Sepaktakraw Tournament began on Tuesday at Hall B, Indira Gandhi (IG) Stadium, Kohima, with the President of the All Nagaland Private School Association (ANPSA), Nini Sekhose, attending as the special guest.

In her address at the opening ceremony, Sekhose commended the Department of Youth Resources and Sports for organising the tournament and remarked that the initiative would yield fruitful results, noting that it is already showing positive outcomes.

 She expressed delight over the performances of students in tournaments held outside the state and conveyed ANPSA’s gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with the Directorate of Youth Resources and Sports.

She mentioned that never before had private schools been able to bring together so many talented young players from across Nagaland for a sporting event. Although the association had previously organised song and other competitions, it had not been able to conduct such a large-scale sporting event.

Also read: NorthEast United FC sign 3-year MoU with Meghalaya government

Sekhose advised the students that sports are not only about winning trophies but also about building character, discipline, teamwork, and confidence.

Highlighting that Sepaktakraw is a beautiful game that is fast, skilful, and full of energy, she said the sport combines strength with grace and teamwork with quick thinking. She added that it teaches an important lesson—that success is not merely about individual talent but about teamwork, trust, and focus under pressure.

She further remarked that staying focused under pressure is a crucial life skill learned through sports.

Sekhose encouraged the young players, describing them as the future of sports in their communities and in the state. She said that every kick, serve, and dive was a step towards something greater, not only in sports but also in life. She urged them to play with all their heart, respect their opponents, and never give up regardless of the score.

She maintained that the real champions are not only those who lift the trophy but also those who remain strong in spirit even when outcomes are unfavourable. She further stated that life involves both victories and challenges and that true winners are those who succeed even during difficult times and continue to persevere despite setbacks.

The ANPSA president appreciated the coaches who had wholeheartedly trained the students under the leadership of Holshe Khrieo, despite Sepaktakraw being a relatively new game for schools.

She urged the students to let the tournament be a celebration of sportsmanship, friendship, perseverance, and resilience and encouraged them to leave the court as winners in spirit, regardless of the results.

The closing programme is scheduled for October 15 with Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, advisor for School Education and SCERT, as the special guest. S Keoshu Yimkhiung, advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, will deliver an exhortation.

A total of 15 teams for boys and 13 teams for girls from 11 districts are participating in the tournament.