Bendangwati Jamir, Pastor of MTBA, declared the 37th Mokokchung District Badminton Open Championship 2025 open at the Indoor Badminton Stadium, Mokokchung, on July 10. (Morung Photo)
122 players compete across 19 categories; selection for inter-district team begins
Morung Express News
Mokokchung | July 10
The 37th Mokokchung District Badminton Open Championship 2025, organized by the Mokokchung District Badminton Association (MDBA), was officially inaugurated on July 10 at the Indoor Badminton Stadium, Mokokchung. The annual championship event for badminton enthusiasts in the district witnessed the participation of 122 players.
Although the designated Special Guest, Imtiyapang, Councilor of the Mokokchung Municipal Council, could not attend the event due to unforeseen circumstances, his message was read out by MDBA General Secretary Chubawati. In his written address, Imtiyapang extended warm greetings and shared words of encouragement for the participants.
“Badminton players from Mokokchung are truly fortunate,” his message read. “We are blessed with a dedicated association that tirelessly promotes the sport. While we may not yet have world-class infrastructure, we must make the best of what we have and strive for excellence.”
He emphasized the importance of discipline, mental strength, and focus in badminton — traits he described as essential not just in sports but in life. “I believe badminton is a perfect sport for the Naga people… it relies on agility, technique, and mental strength more than physical structure,” he said, adding that the lack of discipline remains one of the key challenges among today’s youth.
Calling on the players to uphold sportsmanship, he concluded, “Let us celebrate the spirit of the game and let badminton be the true winner in the end.”
The 122 players participating in this year’s championship will compete in 123 matches across 19 categories — ranging from Under-9 to 65+ years. The tournament also serves as a selection platform for the district team, which will represent Mokokchung in the upcoming Inter-District Badminton Tournament, scheduled to be held in Chümoukedima from July 29 to August 1.
“Selected players from this championship will undergo intensive coaching beginning July 14, conducted by experienced coaches from Manipur, as part of MDBA’s effort to strengthen its competitive edge at the state level,” MDBA President Imomar told The Morung Express on the sidelines of the event.
The opening ceremony was chaired by Dr. Obendangla, while Bendangwati Jamir, Pastor of MTBA, invoked blessings for the tournament. MDBA President Imomar delivered the welcome and introductory remarks. The tournament will culminate on July 12.
