Nagaland Zing-Zing, MADFA clinch G. Rio Volleyball titles

Zing-Zing Kezo Town and MADFA Dimapur emerged as winners of the G. Rio Memorial Volleyball Trophy- in the men’s and women’s categories respectively, as the 12th Kohima Open Tournament concluded on Thursday at Khuochiezie (Local Ground) Kohima.
In the men’s final, Zing-Zing Kezo Town secured the championship title by defeating MH-10, while MADFA Dimapur overcame Teen Star Manipur to claim the women’s title.
Zing-Zing Kezo Town walked away with a cash prize of Rs. 1.5 lakh along with trophy and citations while runners-up, MH-10 bagged Rs. 80,000.
Women’s Champions, MADFA Dimapur bagged Rs. 80,000 as cash prize while runners-up, Teen Star Manipur pocketed Rs. 50,000.
Semi-finalist teams Titans Club and Serenity Spikers received Rs. 15,000 each, while men’s teams Kazi Najrul Assam and Kiruphema Youth Organization were awarded Rs 25,000 each.
Individual Awards (Rs 5,000 each).
Men’s Best Spiker: Mani (Zing-Zing Kezo Town)
Men’s Best Setter: Joyson (Zing-Zing Kezo Town)
Women’s Best Spiker: Sangita Das (MADFA Dimapur)
Women’s Best Setter: Lhingpichoi (Teen Star Manipur)
Addressing the closing ceremony, C. Manpon Konyak, MLA,highlighted the importance of cultural identity, unity and responsibility among the Naga people. He also expressed gratitude to the family of Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, acknowledging their longstanding contributions to the political and social landscape of the state.
Konyak paid tribute to chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio and Zhaleo Rio, MLA and Advisor for Urban Development & Municipal Affairs, stating that their leadership had “kept the Nagas awake despite all odds” and continued to inspire generations across Nagaland.
Commending KDVA and the organising team, he noted that while volleyball might not be a globally dominant sport, it remained significant for its ability to unite hearts, minds, and communities. He also congratulated the participating teams for their sportsmanship, describing the tournament as a moment of collective pride.
Reflecting on what he described as a “transitional era” for Nagaland, the MLA expressed concern that the state had drifted from the roots of its cultural identity. He urged communities to restore unity and cultural consciousness, warning that the “line has been drawn remarkably far away from protecting our identity.”
He further emphasised the need to safeguard culture, embrace responsibility, and contribute fresh ideas for the common good. Urging the audience to pave the way for younger generations, he called for a renewed collective effort towards unity and shared progress.
The programme featured comperes Vizosienuo Shüya and Ketholezo Keyho, a special musical performance by Seyiekuolie Bio, and a vote of thanks delivered by Rükravolie Rülho, co-convenor of the organising committee.