CHSS Dimapur kicks off annual sports week

Christian Higher Secondary School (CHSS), Dimapur held the opening ceremony of its Annual Sports Week 2025 on September 23 at CHSS ground. The ceremony was graced by Lt. Col. Longshibemo Odyuo (Indian Army) as the special guest who also officially opened the annual sports week 2025. The event will culminate on September 26.
In his speech, special guest Lt. Col. longshibemo Odyuo emphasized that sports complement academic excellence by instilling discipline, perseverance, teamwork and fair play, these principles that form the foundation of strong character and success. He emphasized that, both in sports and in life, effort and attitude often matter more than the final result.
He stated that every game played was a lesson in resilience and a celebration of success. He briefly shared the story of Hawaldar Hokato Sema from Nagaland, who, after losing a leg in a landmine blast, overcame immense challenges and turned adversity into strength. He noted that despite the physical and emotional hardship, including battling depression, Hokato transformed his adversity into strength.
He said that Hokato’s journey from injury to glory reminds us that true strength lies not in avoiding challenges, but in overcoming them. He added that Hokato’s courage inspired everyone to face difficulties with resilience, hope and an unwavering spirit.
He said that as an Army officer, he had seen that the values learned through sports commitment, courage and leadership were the same values that protect and build the nation. He noted that facing adversity as a team, staying calm under pressure, and supporting one another in both victory and defeat are invaluable lessons every sportsman learns. He added that these skills are useful not only in the military, but also in civil services, entrepreneurship or any path one may choose.
Addressing the young athletes, he reminded them that true sportsmanship was not measured by the number of medals, but by the spirit they carry. Success and failure, he said, were temporary, but character and friendship will endure.
He encouraged them to play wholeheartedly, support each other and enjoy the journey regardless of the outcome. He also acknowledged the teachers, stating that their encouragement and support shaped young minds, nurtured talent and helped students view challenges as opportunities for growth. Their guidance, he said, amplifies achievement and turned setbacks into progress.
He remarked that events like the sports week are vital for building community pride and showcasing Nagaland’s rich sporting spirit. He said the traditions and teamwork displayed here contribute to the fabric of national identity. He encouraged the participants to let their achievements inspire others and to cherish the bonds formed to last forever.
In conclusion, he wished that enthusiasm, bravery and sportsmanship would shine through in every game and every day. He reminded everyone that it is not always about winning, but about growing, learning and building unity.
Other highlights of the day included the hoisting of the flag (in-charge Bikram Naik), the national anthem was led by Chonbeni, and the March Past during which the special guest received the salute. The lighting of the torch was carried out by Kewilthenpu (Class 10A) and Konmei (Class 10C), while the oath-taking ceremony was led by Bikram Naik. The CHSS band presented a song, followed by performances from the Fitness Dance group, the NATYAM Freestyle group, and a Taekwondo demonstration.
Earlier the progamme was chaired by Kathimen and Renbeni, invocation by Anino Ao, vote of thanks by Principal, S. Moatemsu Walling, benediction by Chaplain, Jolly Jami and concluded with the school anthem led by Lulu, Jolly and Chonbeni.