An exhibition match being played between U-11 and U-9 boys before the commencement of the tournament.
Morung Express News
Mokokchung | December 12
The 1st Li Ning North East Invitational Badminton Tournament organized by the Mokokchung District Badminton Association (MDBA) under the aegis of the Nagaland Badminton Association and Mokokchung District Sports Council commenced at Badminton Indoor stadium at Mokokchung on December 12 with Col Rahul Gurung, Kirti Chakra, Commandant, 12 Assam Rifles as the special guest.
Martoshi Jamir, President, MDBA in his welcome address informed that there are 85 players from within and outside the state competing in the tournament including players from Manipur and Assam. The president also informed that the tournament was organized in commemoration of Nagaland Badminton Association’s 50 years celebration and also towards MDBA Vision 2040 goal to produce Olympians from the district.
Thsuvisie Phoji, Deputy Commissioner and President, Mokokchung District Sports Council, who was also present at the inaugural programme in his short speech, said that the players coming from outside of Nagaland should make the best use of their stay in the town and encouraged all the participants to put their best in the tournament.
The special guest, Col Rahul Gurung, in his speech mentioned about the history of badminton and also the role of sports in an individual’s life. “Engaging in sports keeps our bodies active, making our hearts stronger. Sports also develop your social skills as you interact with your opponents as well as the teammates. It improves one’s ability to work in a team giving him/her an exposure to the team culture, which is beneficial in professional life as well,” he added.
The tournament will be played under six categories. Women's Doubles, Men's Doubles, Men's 75+ Doubles, Men's 85+ Doubles, Men's 95+ Doubles, Men's 105+ Doubles. The tournament will conclude on December 15.
