5th Dr. Imkongliba Ao memorial volleyball trophy underway

A three-day 5th All Nagaland Dr. Imkongliba Ao memorial volleyball trophy commenced on Wednesday, at DDSC Stadium, Dimapur. The trophy is being organized by Japukong Youth Organisation (JYO).
A total of nine teams are participating at the trophy namely Group 1 includes MH-10, Street Boys Club, Blind Spikers, Akuluto VK, Vision Club and Niuland while Group 2 includes Changtongya Volleyball Association, Chienino Brothers, Kiruphema, United Changki, Southern Angami Sports Association and Shikaho Memorial Club, Akuluto.
The chief host of the trophy was Minister, Tourism & Higher Education, Nagaland Temjen Imna Along with Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) councillor Lanuchuba Imchen as co-host.
Gracing the inaugural ceremony of a local sports tournament as the chief guest, Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) chairman Hukheto Yepthomi congratulated the organizing committee for successfully hosting the event, calling it a “celebration of common aspirations” that brings people together through the spirit of sportsmanship.
In his address, Yepthomi said that such tournaments serve as an example of unity and cooperation, strengthening community bonds across the state. “We must work together to build stronger ties among our communities. Events like this stand as a beacon of hope during challenging times, promoting peace, unity, and progress,” he stated.
Highlighting the transformative power of sports, the chairman noted that sports have always played a vital role in fostering resilience and inspiring individuals. “History shows us that sports teach endurance and resilience. In Nagaland, our youths have shown great enthusiasm and talent, becoming role models through hard work and dedication,” he said. Yepthomi encouraged more young people to take up sports not merely as a means of competition but as a path toward personal growth, discipline and community harmony. He emphasized that sports transcend barriers of language and culture, uniting people through shared passion and teamwork.
Oath taking was administered by organizing committee member Moanungsang which was followed by declaration of tournament
At the programme, invocation prayer was offered by DABA youth director Maongtoshi Longshir, welcome address was delivered by JYO president Limayanger Imchen and special presentation by Vinika Yepthomi.