NWA fetes Rokuokehie Khawakhrie, unveils new team

KOHIMA — The Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) organised a felicitation programme on Thursday to honour Rokuokehie Khawakhrie for winning a bronze medal at the recently concluded Belt Wrestling Alysh Grand Prix-2024 in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Speaking at the occasion at the Nagaland Olympic Association (NOA) office complex in Kohima, Veyielo Doulo, Director of Tourism, emphasised that sports, whether on the track, in the field, in the ring, or in any arena, foster discipline.

He noted that sports impart mental strength as well as physical strength, highlighting the beauty of sports in fostering friendships even with opponents. Doulo added that sports have the unique ability to bring people together from all walks of life.

Doulo extended congratulations to the bronze medalist, as well as to other wrestlers and officials of the recently concluded Belt Wrestling Alysh Grand Prix. He also commended NWA for its efforts in taking Naga wrestlers to the international level.

He also wished the NWA team well and hoped that they would continue to excel, bringing honour to both the state and the country.

It may be mentioned that Khawakhrie, representing India along with six others, clinched a bronze medal in the 70 kg category. The tournament was held from April 27 to 30.

The NWA also felicitated Surhoneyi Soho on the occasion for becoming the first international referee in belt wrestling from Nagaland.

During the programme, the NWA election commission announced the new NWA team for the tenure of 2024–2028. The team is led by president Vivolie Kezo, vice presidents Viketuozo Meyase and Mitwatei Haiwang, general secretary Kenlum Hemang, joint secretary Kuzhovesa Soho, treasurer Keneilel Rote, property secretary Rangsilang, technical secretary Vekhriyi Chuzho, publicity secretary Seyielhouvi Nagi, and women coordinators Icetdaile, Vesavolu Rhakho, and Mezhiesino Keyho.

Advisors include Dr. Hiabe Zeliang, Vekhozo Ringa, and Lhoubeizo Kesiyie. Neivikuolie Khatsu and Mosonyi Domeh will be representatives at the national level.

Speaking to Eastern Mirror, Hiabe informed that the Nagaland state government is organising an open belt wrestling event scheduled for November this year. He stressed the NWA’s efforts to promote wrestling within the community and underscored the importance of government intervention for the sport’s expansion.

Hiabe expressed gratitude for the government’s backing and informed that the state is sponsoring five wrestlers and one referee, Surhoneyi Soho, for the upcoming Asian Belt Wrestling Championship.