Kohima, July 9 (MExN): The 1st Kohima District Inter High School Badminton Tournament commenced on July 9 at the Indoor Badminton Stadium, Officers’ Hill, Thegabakha, bringing together young shuttlers from schools across the district.
Director of School Education, Razouseyi Vese, who attended as the special guest, congratulated the Kohima District Badminton Association (KDBA) for organising the tournament and promoting badminton at the grassroots level. He said sports play a vital role in shaping young people by instilling discipline, teamwork, perseverance and leadership, while contributing to their physical and mental well-being.
Encouraging participants to make the most of the opportunity, Vese urged them to compete with dedication, uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and maintain a balance between academics and sports.
He also called on parents, teachers and the wider community to continue supporting young athletes, expressing confidence that such initiatives would help nurture future sportspersons capable of representing Nagaland and the country. He later declared the tournament open.
In his welcome address, KDBA President Kezhalezo Solo said the championship seeks to promote sportsmanship, strengthen friendships among schools and provide a platform for young players to showcase their talent. He encouraged participants to uphold the values of fair play, discipline, mutual respect and teamwork throughout the competition.
KDBA Vice President (Administration) Kekhrie Pfukha highlighted the objectives of the tournament, stating that it aims to nurture young talent while promoting character building, resilience and teamwork. Referring to the tournament theme, “Serving Dreams, Scoring the Future,” he said the association remains committed to identifying and developing promising athletes through structured coaching and competitive exposure. He also stressed the need for greater support from parents, schools and the community to strengthen grassroots sports development.
The programme began with an invocation by Dr S N Among Jamir, Pastor of Chandmari Fellowship, Kohima Ao Baptist Church. Students of Stella Higher Secondary School, Kohima presented a special song. The event was chaired by KDBA Honorary Secretary Thepfuvizo Peter Vizo.
