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DIMAPUR — Advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Zhaleo Rio, inaugurated the Seithekema Circle Sports Meet 2023 at Sovima Cricket Ground on Tuesday.
The 12-day sporting extravaganza will continue until October 14, with a total of 28 villages competing in men's football and women's volleyball.
Speaking as the special guest, Rio said that there are 36 villages within the Seithekema administrative block, and the Seithekema circle represents a harmonious blend of diverse tribes, and hosting such sporting events plays an important role in fostering unity among all its residents.
He also expressed hope that those villages that were unable to participate this time would participate in the next edition.
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=1]While highlighting the legacy of Dr. T Ao, who captained the Indian football team in 1948, he also noted that in the current context, neighbouring states such as Manipur, Mizoram, and Assam have surpassed Nagaland in the realm of sports.
He added that the state has not been able to produce footballers of national or international calibre, thus failing to uphold Dr. Ao's legacy, but expressed optimism and hope for the future.
Rio urged the youth to avoid alcohol and substance abuse while setting clear goals to achieve excellence in their chosen sports. Also, he urged schools, parents, and anyone in a position of authority to identify talented young people and provide them with guidance and support on their path to success in sports.
Moko Koza, Nikato Tamang, The Gluttones, and Jano Nyekha will also perform at the event.
A thrilling competition is set to unfold in men's football, with 27 teams from 27 different villages competing for the prestigious trophy and the cash prize of INR 1 lakh. The tournament's runners-up will receive a cash prize of INR 60,000.
The best player, best goalkeeper, and highest scorer will each receive INR 5,000, and the best disciplined team will receive INR 10,000.
Women's volleyball will feature 19 teams from 19 villages competing for the title and a cash prize of INR 70,000, while the runners-up will receive a cash prize of INR 40,000.
Other awards include INR 3,000 for the best spiker, best setter, and player of the tournament, and INR 7,000 for the best disciplined team.