Officials along with the participants during the inauguration of the second edition Interschool Volleyball League 2026 in Wokha on June 6. (DIPR Photo)
Wokha, June 6 (MExN): The second edition of the Interschool Volleyball League 2026 was inaugurated at the Public Ground in Wokha on Saturday, with state officials highlighting the importance of sports in youth development and nation-building. The tournament has been organised by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports in collaboration with the Wokha District Volleyball Association.
Director of Youth Resources and Sports, Government of Nagaland, Kethosituo Sekhose, NCS, attended the inaugural programme as the special guest and reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting sports at all levels.
In his address, Sekhose spoke about the opportunities available for sportspersons within the state and beyond, and encouraged young athletes to aspire to represent the country in international competitions. He also highlighted the government’s efforts to improve sports infrastructure and stressed the values of unity, friendship, discipline and purpose that sports instil among youth.
The director encouraged parents to actively support their children by attending sporting events and emphasised the importance of balancing academics, sports and career development through effective time management. He also acknowledged initiatives such as the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA) for promoting arts and appreciated the anti-drug campaign of the Lotha Youth Hoho, expressing hope that it would contribute to a healthier environment for young people.
Assistant General Secretary of the Wokha District Volleyball Association, Nzanbemo Lapon, delivered the welcome address and said the second edition of the league is better equipped than last year’s event and is expected to witness improved performances, with equal opportunities for boys and girls.
District Youth Resources Officer, Wokha, Libemo Jami, in his greeting address, underscored the need for greater inclusivity in sports, noting that volleyball, once dominated by male players, is now seeing increased participation by girls. He also stressed the need to strengthen sports infrastructure and improve Wokha’s representation in state-level sporting events.
The players’ oath was administered by Yanpothing Ezung.
Altogether, nine schools are participating in the tournament, including six schools in the girls’ category, with more than 180 players taking part in the competition.
