EMN
Dimapur, November 3
The 29th edition of Ato Area GBs’ Football Trophy, Late Nikhekhu Memorial Volleyball Trophy and Late Shekuto Suu Memorial Badminton Championship got underway this morning at Hokhezhe village. Parliamentary Secretary for Co-operation & Sericulture graced the inaugural function as chief guest and declared the week-long event open. This is the first time that badminton is being played in an area level sports meet in Western Sumi.Addressing the gathering the chief guest urged the people of Western Sumi to be front runners of peace, unity and prosperity and thus village chief and elders must lead the people through good examples and righteousness.
Exhorting the sportspersons taking part in the Ato area sports meet, Pukhayi said games and sports throughout the world is an integral part of every society making major contribution towards the economic progress of the society. He called upon the participants to make best of their talents exhibiting good sporting spirit, discipline and strife to achieve excellence.
In an attempt to encourage and to promote badminton in the district, a team of Dimapur District Badminton Association officials comprising of Hokugha Yeptho, general secretary, Er. Mulato Chishi, joint secretary and Vikugha Chophy, member attended the inaugural function. The DDBA has been making effort to encourage youngsters to take up badminton. Hokugha said introduction of badminton at a competition level in Western Sumi would boost the sport in the district. Mulato was of the view that Western Sumi could be a hot bed to produce good shuttlers in days to come. DDBA also donated badminton nets and shuttle cocks towards the meet.
Speaking on behalf of the trophy donors, Isawoto Zhimomi, head GB, Nikhekhu village said continued effort should be made to improve the standard of games and sports in the area; thereby tapping the talents of youngsters and projecting them to district and state level competitions.
Hokhezhe Sumi, head GB Hokhezhe village welcomed the delegates and dignitaries while games and sports secretary, George Sumi administered oath of participation.
Pastor Ilhoshe, president, AACLF invoked blessing from the almighty while Shikavi Zhimo, head GB, Ghikito village proposed of thanks.
Ten villages from Ato area are participating in the event.
In the inaugural football match Nihokhu village defeated Khehoyi village by a solitary goal.
