State-level U-14 Sepaktakraw tournament kicks off in Kohima

The State-Level “Catch Them Young” Under-14 Sepaktakraw Tournament commenced on Tuesday at Hall B, Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima. The two-day event is being organized by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports (DYRS) in collaboration with the All Nagaland Private Schools Association (ANPSA), featuring participation from 11 districts with a total of 28 teams—13 girls’ teams and 15 boys’ teams.
Gracing the inaugural ceremony as special guest, ANPSA president Nini Sekhose expressed gratitude to DYRS for organizing the tournament, describing it as a landmark initiative for private schools across Nagaland. She noted that while ANPSA has previously hosted cultural and academic competitions, organizing a sporting event of this scale had long been a challenge. She commended the Director of DYRS for making this vision a reality and emphasized the importance of such platforms in nurturing young talent.
Addressing the young athletes, Sekhose encouraged them to embrace the tournament as an opportunity for growth, character-building and teamwork. She highlighted the unique qualities of Sepaktakraw, its speed, skill and energy—and underscored the values of discipline, focus and resilience that sports instill. “Real champions are not only the ones who lift the trophy, but the ones who keep their spirit strong, even when things don’t go their way,” she said.
Sekhose also acknowledged the dedication of coaches who have introduced the sport to students, many of whom are experiencing Sepaktakraw for the first time. She expressed hope that the tournament would foster sportsmanship, friendship, and perseverance among participants.
The programme began with an invocation prayer by Assistant Professor at Kohima Bible College, Zhapuvilie Yashü, followed by a welcome address from Senior State Sports Coach Khriehutuo Tsira. Additional Director of Youth Resources and Sports, Megolhu Dolie, was also present at the event.
The closing ceremony is scheduled for October 15 at 3 PM, with Advisor for School Education and SCERT, Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, set to attend as the special guest.