18th Imchaba Memorial Nagaland Open Volleyball Trophy begins in Mkg

The 18th edition of the Imchaba Master Memorial Nagaland Open Volleyball Trophy 2025 commenced on October 21 at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex, Mokokchung, under the aegis of the Mokokchung District Volleyball Association (MDVA).
In the inaugural match, defending champions MH-10 Kohima faced Chienino Brothers Kiruphema ‘A’, the third-place finishers from 2023. MH-10 Kohima reaffirmed their dominance with a straight-set victory, winning 25–16, 25–18 in the best-of-three encounter.
This year’s tournament features 14 teams from across Nagaland, competing in a league-cum-knockout format from October 21 to 24.
As announced by the MDVA, the champions will receive a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh. The runners-up will be awarded Rs. 70,000, while the third and fourth place teams will receive Rs. 30,000 and Rs. 20,000 respectively. Individual awards of Rs. 5,000 each will be presented for Best Spiker, Best Setter, and Player of the Tournament.
The opening ceremony was graced by District Education Officer, Mokokchung, Sentinenla, as the special guest, with Pretty Tzudir chairing the event. The programme began with an invocation by associate pastor of Chakesang Baptist Church Mokokchung, Atsole Khalo.
Addressing the gathering, Sentinenla commended the MDVA for its sustained efforts in promoting grassroots sports. She encouraged the youth to engage in constructive pursuits like sports, which foster discipline, unity, and leadership. Describing the tournament as the most prestigious sporting event in honour of the late Master Imchaba, she lauded the organizers and teams for exemplifying unity, strength, and resilience. She urged all players to compete with integrity and uphold the true spirit of sportsmanship.
In his welcome address, Convener of the Planning Committee, Apongti, extended greetings to all participating teams and guests, emphasizing the tournament’s legacy as a celebration of sporting excellence and community spirit. He noted that the enthusiastic participation of teams reflected their deep passion for the sport.
Following the formalities, the Championship Trophy was ceremonially handed over by defending champions MH-10 Kohima, and the tournament was officially declared open to enthusiastic applause from the audience.