DIMAPUR — The Sumi Wrestling Association (SWA), in collaboration with Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA), launched its 10-day long intensive wrestling training camp at town hall, Pughoboto town, on Monday.
Vice president (general) of NWA, Viketouzo Meyase, the special invitee for the launching programme, underscored the importance of wrestling, a traditional sport practiced by forefathers since times immemorial.
Sharing the performance of the NWA in the AITWPF 12 National Traditional Wrestling and Pankration Championship 2024 recently held in Dehradun, he informed that NWA wrestlers grabbed 54 medals, creating a history in the record of the NWA.
He also informed that the Asian Belt Wrestling Championship is scheduled to be held in Kohima from November 17 to the 23rd, where two nations from Africa, three from Europe and more than 20 countries from Asia have confirmed their participation.
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Stating that Naga style wrestling is all set to be included as medal event during the Asian championship, Meyase urged Sumi brothers to be part of the NWA championships and events.
On behalf of the NWA, he also extended special invitation to the SWA wrestlers to be part of the forthcoming 17th International Naga Wrestling Championship 2024, tentatively scheduled on December 4 at Khouchiezie ground, KOhima.
Approximately 26 wrestlers including 5 women from several ranges have registered for the camp.
Prominent NWA wrestlers Kewecholo Akami, Rüüzetuo Visienyü and Puikube Zeliang have been assigned as coach/trainer for the 10-day camp.
N Kitoshe Kiho, SWA president, said that wrestling is not a new game for the Sumis; however, with the introduction of modern sports and events, traditional Naga wrestling took a back seat.
Kiho said the formation of Sumi Wrestling Association in July 2024 and the 10-day training camp are part of initiatives to revive wrestling among the Sumis.