DIMAPURA, OCT 30 (NPN): St. Joseph University, Chümoukedima, emerged as the overall champion of the fifth edition of the St. Joseph University Trophy 2026, held on October 28 and 29 under the theme, “One Spirit, One Goal, One Trophy.”
The two-day sporting event brought together students and teams from various colleges and institutions, with competitions held in football, volleyball and basketball, promoting sportsmanship, teamwork, discipline and healthy competition.
In the tournament results, Salesian College of Higher Education, Dimapur, emerged champion in men’s football, while National Institute of Technology (NIT), Nagaland, secured the runners-up position. St. Joseph University clinched the men’s volleyball title, with Eastern Christian College, Dimapur, finishing as runners-up. In men’s basketball, Tetso College, Sovima, emerged champion, followed by Patkai Christian College (Autonomous) as runners-up.
Individual awards were also presented to outstanding performers. Victor D. Sangma of NIT Nagaland received the Best Goalkeeper award in football, while Lungniamthai Gangmei of Salesian College of Higher Education, Dimapur, was adjudged Player of the Tournament. In volleyball, Shohepu of St. Joseph University received the Best Spiker award, while Shahit, also from the university, was named Best Setter. Jungchilong of Tetso College, Sovima, received the Most Valuable Player award in basketball.
The inaugural programme was held at the university ground on October 28, beginning with the blessing and inauguration of the Pickleball Court by Principal of St. Anthony School, Tenyiphe-I, and former Principal of Jalukie College, Rev. Dr. Fr. Francis S. Cheerangal.
Addressing the gathering as special guest, Rev. Dr. Fr. Francis S. Cheerangal encouraged the participants to uphold the values of sportsmanship and healthy competition.
The programme also featured the hoisting of the National and University flags, followed by the national and university anthems presented by the university’s Music Club. Cultural performances by students, including a special musical presentation by Zulurenla M. Pongen, a first-semester BA student, and traditional Mulkam and hoop dances by students of the Bachelor of Physical Education and Sports programme, added colour to the occasion.
The inaugural programme was hosted by Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology and Counselling, Rebecca, while Dr. Patrick Praveen Dukpa of the Department of Economics delivered the vote of thanks. The ceremony also featured the ceremonial lighting of the torch and administration of the oath by the Games and Sports Secretary of the St. Joseph University Students’ Council (SJUSC).
The sporting events were officiated by officials from the Nagaland Referees Association (NES).
The valedictory programme was moderated by Hokato Sumi, Assistant Professor, Department of History, St. Joseph University.
