Kohima, January 16 (MExN): The 44th RSA football tournament kick started at Phenshenyu Lojvii Sports Association (PLSA) ground, at Phenshenyu village on 10th January 2017 under the theme ‘Fast and Accurate.’ The event hosted by Rengma Sports Association and co-hosted by PLSA will culminate on the January 20. The inaugural function was held at Whenha Sports complex, Phenshiinyu on January 10. The event commenced with the unveiling of monolith and hoisting of flag by the chief guest, Er Y Tep (Superintending Engineer PHED Kohima Circle) who also graced the occasion. The programme was chaired by Jwenbu Semp (Gen Secy. RSA) followed by an invocation by Haiwalo Apon (Executive Secy. CRBC, Zunpha). Hisinlo Keppen (President PLSA) delivered the welcome speech after which the cultural dance troupe from Terogvunyu, who in their colourful attires regaled one and all with their graceful moves. Thereafter, in his presidential address, Isaak Khing (President RSA) encouraged the youths to develop the spirit of good sportsmanship as well as inculcate the values of sports in their lives. Up next, Nyecy Lorin and Hannah Lorin enthralled the gathering in a sweet harmonizing voice, and conveyed a powerful message through their song. The teams were then introduced followed by a speech from the Chief Guest. The program concluded with G.K Rengma (Joint Secy. RSA) who delivered the vote of thanks. The oath was administered to the teams by Bentilo Apon, Match Commissioner, who solemnly pledged to uphold the spirit of true sportsmanship. The Chief Guest declared the tournament open.
