Special Guest with several delegates and the teams of the first match.
Morung Express News
Tuensang | October 21
The 32nd Loyem Memorial Trophy, organized under the theme ‘Football Towards Harmony’ by Chang Wedoshi Setshang and the Chang Sports Association, began Monday at the Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground in Tuensang. The tournament, one of the oldest in Nagaland, aims to foster peace and harmony through sports.
S. Phangnon Konyak, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, graced the occasion as the special guest and was welcomed with a traditional reception by the Longra Womenfolk. In her address, Konyak congratulated the Chang Students’ Conference for keeping the tournament alive for over three decades. She highlighted that the tournament, initially started to restore peace in the conflict-ridden town, has now become a symbol of hope, providing a platform for young Naga athletes.
“This tournament is a testament to the aspiration for peace and harmony, organized voluntarily for the past 31 years,” Konyak said, adding that while talent abounds, it is the lack of infrastructure that hinders further growth in sports.
The opening ceremony featured an invocation by Rev. Fr. Shaji Matthew, Principal of SJHSS, Tuensang, and was compered by Suchila Chang, Lecturer at Weshen Theological College. C. Pongsu, President of Chang Wedoshi Setshang, delivered the welcome address, followed by brief remarks from Deputy Commissioner Lithrongla T. Rutsa and Yangdipi, President of the Tuensang District Football Association. The Baptist Youth Front of Tuensang Town performed a special number during the event.
The oath for the participating teams was led by Hongsa, Secretary of Youth Affairs at Chang Wedoshi Setshang.
Eight teams are competing in this year’s edition: defending champions Son Kük Laang FC, Nyenshen FC, Waza FC, DEF Tuensang FC, Upper DefenceChingmelen FC, Donsang FC, Tiaren FC, and Northeast Youngster Football School from Manipur.
In the opening match, Son Kük Laang FC edged out Tiaren FC with a narrow 1-0 victory, thanks to a third-minute goal by Seimingthang.
Matches scheduled for October 22 include Nyenshen FC vs. Donsang FC at noon, followed by DEF Tuensang FC vs. Northeast Youngster Football School at 2 p.m.
