2nd Dr. Savizo Yhome Memorial Tennis Cup begins

The 2nd edition of Dr. Savizo Yhome Memorial Tennis Cup organised by the Dimapur District Tennis Association (DDTA) and Kohima District Tennis Association (KDTA), under Nagaland Lawn Tennis Association (NLTA), commenced on Wednesday at Chavino Peseyie Indoor Tennis Stadium, Kuda village, Dimapur with Abeio Kire, (IFS, Retd.) as the chief guest.
Speaking at the inaugural programme, Kire expressed gratitude to the family of late Dr. Yhome for funding the tournament, which started in 2021. He also recalled the humble beginning of NLTA and tennis influence in Nagaland in late 1980s. He added that it had come a long way, that today NLTA has its own complex and hosting spectacular tournament, which reflects the commitment of the founding members of the association. Kire also stated that at present, tennis in Nagaland is still at the level of a hobby or recreational activity, but expressed hope that in coming years, the youngsters would excel and represent the state in National and International platforms.
He further encouraged the players to take advantage of every opportunity provided by the association and to maintained good health.
Speaking to Nagaland Post on the side-line of the inaugural programme, tournament director Kikrusetuo Sekhose, said that engaging in any kind of sports activities particularly lawn tennis isn’t just about physical or mental exercise anymore, but additionally it helps an individual by providing access to different opportunities such as in academic, military and social recognition. He further informed that the tournament would be held after every two years and the next edition will be a North-East level tournament. The tournament has four categories – men’s singles, veteran’s doubles, men’s doubles and mixed doubles.
The cash prize for the men’s singles, will be first – INR 50000, second – INR 30000 and INR 10000 each for the two semi-finalists.
In veterans double, first – INR 25000, second – INR 15000 and INR 5000 each for the two semi-finalists.
In the men’s doubles, INR 30000, INR 20000 and INR 10000 each for the two semi-finalists.
In mixed doubles, INR 20000, INR 10000 and INR 5000 each for the two semi-finalists.
Around 40 players are participating at the four-day event and will conclude on April 15.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Theja Khate, who also delivered the welcome speech and invocation by Asa Khate.