CVA members are seen giving final touches in preparation for the first late Imonungba Memorial Nagaland Open Volleyball Trophy 2022 which commences from November 8 at Public Ground, Changtongya Town.
Changtongya, November 7 (MExN): The maiden late Imonungba Memorial Nagaland Open Volleyball Trophy 2022 will start from November 8 at Public Ground, Changtongya Town.
A total of 11 teams, divided into 4 pools, are taking part in the 3-day trophy being organised by the Changtongya Volleyball Association (CVA) and powered by Lenjeter, a monthly magazine in Ao Naga language.
The inaugural function will be graced by Imnatiba Jamir, Adviser of Industries & Commerce, Labour & Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of Nagaland.
Nagaland Volleyball Association President, Jacob Yanthan and Changtongya Village Council Chairman, TiasunepLongkumer will also address the inaugural function.
Thereafter, the opening match of the trophy will witness clash between arguably the two best volleyball teams in Nagaland - Changtongya Volleyball Association ‘A’ and MH10 Kohima (Senior). Day-I will feature six other matches.
The other participating teams are Team Longsa, Yimyu Evergreen Club Ungma, MH10 Kohima Junior, Sumedem Club, Kubza, Ritsung Rogo, Tuli Volleyball Team, CVA ‘B’ and Young Spiker Club, Unger.
The CVA earlier informed that the championship carries cash prizes of Rs 80,000 for the winner and Rs 40,000 for losing finalist, along with running trophies and citations.
The losing semi-finalist teams will also receive Rs 30,000 each. The trophy also carries individual cash prize of Rs 5000 each for Best Spiker, Best Setter, Best Libero and Player of Tournament.
Hailing from Changtongya village, late Imonungba (1955-1997) was a well-respected State-level volleyball player who was also instrumental in moulding future players, and making his native village a force to reckon with in volleyball.
After studying in the State Sports School Dimapur, he took up Physical Education (PE) at Amravati Maharashtra and became the first PE teacher of the Government Middle School Changtongya (now High School) in 1989.
During his time, he was one of the best left attackers in Nagaland and among others, participated in the National School Games (various years); National Volleyball Championship 1984-85, Kanpur; and the then All Nagaland Open Championship Cosmos Trophy 1982. He also captained Changtongya in in various range, district and state-level tournaments.
Apart from his prowess on the court, Late Imonungba is fondly remembered for his sense of humour and a great motivator.
