DIMAPUR, SEP 15 (NPN): The Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA), in collaboration with the Nagaland Olympic Association (NOA) and the Department of Youth Resources & Sports, Government of Nagaland, held its first selection trial for the upcoming 39th National Games 2027. The trial, covering the disciplines of Greco-Roman, Freestyle and Women’s Wrestling, was conducted on September 15 at the Viswema Multipurpose Hall.
The selection trial follows the intensive training camp that began on August 20, and is scheduled to run for two months, aimed at preparing wrestlers for the National Games to be hosted by Meghalaya. The initiative seeks to identify and nurture talented wrestlers who will represent Nagaland at the prestigious event, underscoring the commitment of the NWA, NOA and the Department of Youth Resources & Sports to strengthening wrestling and fostering competitive talent across the state.
The programme was graced by president of the Angami Sports Association, Ruokuovikho Chale, as the special guest. The proceedings were chaired by general secretary of NWA, Kenlum Hemang, with an invocation led by Kikhwesül Thokhwe, Co-opted technical secretary of NWA and State Wrestling Coach, Department of Youth Resources & Sports. Following the guest’s address, the trials commenced with participation across all three wrestling disciplines.
A total of 45 eligible wrestlers from diverse communities including Angami, Chakhesang, Zeliang, Chang, Sumi, Pochury, Sangtam and Rengma took part in the trials. The selection process was supported by Kikhwesül Thokhwe, Suryansh Sehrawat (Coach) and Thechamo Murry (Assistant Coach), ensuring a fair and rigorous evaluation.
The event marks a significant step in Nagaland’s continued efforts to build a strong wrestling contingent for national representation, with more selection trials anticipated in the coming months.
