The 63rd annual sports meet of the Zhadima Village Youth and Sports Organisation (ZVYSO) commenced on Tuesday at the Zhadima Sports Complex.
The event was inaugurated by adviser to chief minister and chairman, Nagaland Khadi and Village Industries Board, Dr. Neiphrezo Keditsu, who graced the occasion as the chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Keditsu lauded the people of Zhadima for their enduring unity and emphasised the significance of the annual sports meet in fostering harmony and pride among the villagers.
He highlighted the event as a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents and encouraged the youth to fully utilise the sports infrastructure available in the village, which he described as one of the best in the Northern Angami-II area.
However, he urged the community to introspect on whether these facilities were being optimally utilised to compete at par with athletes from other regions.
A notable moment of the inaugural ceremony was the presentation of the ZVYSO Presidential Award to Visielie Sanchu and the ZVYSO Lifetime Achievement Award to Zakienei Khoubve, recognising their contributions and achievements.
The programme, chaired by ZVYSO Secretary Judicial Matters, Keziengulie Alban Sorünuo, began with a prayer by pastor Christian Revival Church, Zhadima, Khriekesa Miario.
ZVYSO president Kekhriesilie Chris Khoubve delivered the presidential address, while Zhadima Village Council chairman Neilalhoulie Soliezuo extended greetings to the participants and attendees. Rev. Dr. T.R. Angami bestowed blessings upon the gathering, and the Northern Angami Sports Association (NASA) attended the event as patrons.
The eight khels of the village showcased a vibrant march past, led by parade commander Visielie Sanchu, followed by an oath-taking ceremony conducted by Games and Sports Secretary ZVYSO, Keviseo Soliezuo.
The cultural highlight of the day was a soulful rendition of Zhadizou Geizo by former Naga Idol Ruokuovotuo Pfüsenuo, accompanied by Mhasizolie Metsie-o, Vizosielie Khoubve, and Medolenuo Loucü.
The inaugural day also featured a football exhibition match between ZVYSO and the Zhadima Students’ Union (ZSU), alongside a series of athletic events, including races, jumps, and throws, showcasing the talent and competitive spirit of the participants.
The second day of the five-day event will see the re-introduction of women’s football, with Commandant of the 10th NAP (IR) Battalion Zhadima, Krodi Rhetso, as the guest of honour.
The comperes for the inaugural day were Seyiekhrielhou Kuotsu and Medolenuo Ambrocia.