Nagaland: Zhadima village youth sports meet concludes

The four-day Zhadima Village Youth and Sports Organisation (ZVYSO) Sports Meet 2026 concluded with the football finals as the highlight of the closing day, drawing large participation and community support.
Addressing the close ceremony, guest of honour Roko Angami, international footballer and officer on special duty (Sports) with the Department of Youth Resources and Sports, expressed gratitude to God for the smooth conduct of the event and for the safety of all participants over the past four days.
Angami noted that the nature of sports has evolved significantly over time. He observed that while physical strength once defined good players, modern sports now demand greater mental strength, strategy and discipline.
Emphasising that sports should no longer be viewed as a mere pastime, he said athletes must aim to excel and outperform others through greater dedication, hard work and training.
Referring to earlier times when sports participation was discouraged due to fears of injury and its perceived impact on studies, Angami said such mindsets have changed, with sports today emerging as one of the most lucrative professions. He credited the Chief Minister for inspiring sportspersons in Nagaland to strive for excellence and pointed to the growth of major sporting events in the state as evidence of increasing opportunities.
Angami also described sports as a festival for villages, but cautioned that such occasions should not become a waste of time. He stressed that events like the ZVYSO meet should be used as platforms for youths to develop their skills and aspire to represent the state and the nation. Calling for a more serious approach to sports and athletics, he underlined the importance of starting at an early age, progressing steadily through different categories and age groups, and going the extra mile to remain competitive.
He further reminded sportspersons to focus not only on physical fitness but also on emotional and mental wellbeing. Concluding his address, Angami urged the village community to remain united and to grow together, both in sports and in collective life.
The programme was chaired by Atu Loucü, joint secretary of ZVYSO, while Medolenuo Ambrocia Loucü and Neiletuonuo Soliezuo compered the event. The invocation was pronounced by Rev Fr Kiran VC, priest-in-charge of Sts Peter and Paul’s Church, Zhadima. A special number was presented by Mhasizolie Metsieo.
In the sports results, Kimho Khel-II emerged as football champions in the men’s category, with Calhake Khel-II as runners-up. In the women’s football final, Phelhuozou Khel claimed the title, while Calhake Khel-II finished second.
In volleyball, Kimho Khel-II won the men’s category, with Basa Khel as runners-up, while CK-I emerged champions in the women’s category, followed by Ruziake Khel. In men’s basketball, Basa Khel secured the championship, with Calhake Khel-II finishing as runners-up.
The event concluded later in the evening with a musical night featuring performances by Neilaü Thaprü, Vikuyole Tase, Avinuo Metha, Visetuo Chüpuo, Vilavor Loucü, Mhasizolie Metsieo and Methasieo Zhale.