Kohima, June 8 (MTNews): Tenloi Phom, a 16-year-old student from TM Government Higher Secondary School in Kohima, achieved the impressive feat of winning the silver medal in the 48kg category of Taekwondo at the 66th National School Games held in Delhi on Thursday.
Phom showcased his skill and determination throughout the tournament, defeating opponents from Karnataka and Chhattisgarh in the initial matches. He continued his winning streak by overcoming his opponent from Assam in the semifinals. However, he had to settle for the silver medal after losing to a formidable competitor from Haryana in the final match.
The Nagaland Taekwondo team, comprising a total of 8 players, is under the guidance of coach Visabiu Peseyie, with Deepak Prasad serving as the team manager. Representing Nagaland under the Department of Youth Resources and Sports, the 16-year-old Phom is currently based at the Sports Academy in IG Stadium, Kohima.
In other matches, Thongti, competing in the under 45kg category, won the first match against Jharkhand but unfortunately lost to Gujarat in the second match. Likewise, Nnumhei, participating in the under 63kg category, emerged victorious in the first match against Andhra Pradesh but faced defeat against Gujarat in the second match. The Nagaland Taekwondo team still has four more matches to compete in.
After a three-year hiatus, the School Games Federation of India (SGFI) has made a commendable effort to organize the 66th National School Games in two different states, namely Bhopal and Delhi. The championship will continue from June 6 to June 12, providing a platform for young athletes from across the country to showcase their talents and sportsmanship.