MOKOKCHUNG, FEBRUARY 1 (MExN): The first edition of the Ungma Youth Sports Festival 2026 concluded at Ungma Village on Saturday, with Day 2 of the event held at Kordang Futsal Ground.
Bendangnukshi, Vice President (Technical) of the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA), attended the programme as guest of honour. Speaking on the occasion, he appreciated Sports Society Soyim (SSS) for initiating the festival and for creating opportunities for young athletes at the grassroots level. He also acknowledged the role of SSS, an affiliated club under MDFA, in contributing to football and sports development in the district.
The day featured competitive futsal matches, while badminton events continued at Yimtsüngda Arok Sabang, drawing participation from young players across categories.
On the third day, table tennis events were introduced as part of the multi-sport programme. A darts workshop was also conducted by the Nagaland Darts Association, providing participants with basic technical training and exposure to the sport.
The festival concluded on the final day evening with I. Tali Longkumer, Councillor, Mokokchung Municipal Council, attending the closing programme. Addressing the gathering, he stressed the need for a dedicated indoor stadium in the district to enable regular training and practice, particularly during adverse weather conditions. He also commended the organisers for their focus on youth engagement through sports.
Organised by Sports Society Soyim, the inaugural Ungma Youth Sports Festival saw the formation of selection boards for each discipline to identify promising athletes for future coaching and guidance. The organisers stated that the initiative aims to develop structured training programmes and support long-term talent development.
