Kohima Village Council felicitates local sportspersons

KOHIMA — The Kohima Village Council (KVC) organised a felicitation programme for its village sportspersons who participated in the recent North East Games and NWA Wrestling Meet on Wednesday at the KVC hall.

Special guest Neibou Sekhose, president of the Nagaland Football Association and deputy chairperson of the AIFF Competition Committee, stated in his brief address on the occasion that the athletes are the icons and gems of the village.

Sekhose emphasised that athletes should not confine themselves to their comfort zones but should strive for higher levels of competition. He advised them to be selective in choosing tournaments and events, opting for professional and recognised ones where they can elevate their skills.

He encouraged them to conduct a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis of themselves, stressing the importance of not only recognising their strengths but also acknowledging their weaknesses and working on improving them.

According to him, the village has the potential to produce national and international players. He therefore called on the gathering to set long-term goals and strive to achieve success at both national and international levels.

KVC chairman Helievio-o Solo, while congratulating the athletes, stated that, given the interest in sports, the council will develop policies to promote sports in the village. The chairman said that the village is currently reaping the benefits of the founders of the Kohima Village Sports Meet, which was established 80 years ago.

Zeneizo Rutsa, vice chairman of the KVC, stated that the village is proud of the athletes’ numerous achievements. However, Rutsa emphasised the importance of humility, urging them to continue to pray and give thanks to the Lord for the blessings upon the village.

A total of 35 athletes were honoured during the event, including Kezhaseluo-o Pienyü, the champion of the 29th NWA Championship, along with 14 medalists from various events at the North East Games 2024, as well as other medalists from zonal and national level competitions.