In a heart-pounding showdown at the 16th Imchaba Master Memorial Nagaland Open Volleyball Trophy 2023 championship match, Ozumi Volleyball Team emerged victorious against the defending champions, MH10, in a nail-biting five-set thriller. The tournament was played at the multi-purpose sports complex, Mokokchung, organized by the Mokokchung District Volleyball Association (MDVA).
The first set set the tone for the intense battle ahead. After a timeout at 21-18 by MH10, they managed to level the score at 21-21. However, Ozumi took a timeout as well to re-strategize. They opted for a block-out tactic, capitalizing on MH10’s strong defense, and clinched the first set with a score of 26-24.
Ozumi continued to apply pressure at the start of the second set, exploiting MH10’s net touch errors. MH10 made a crucial substitution, substituting their captain Tongpangsunep. Their spikers, Reshitemjen and Yongkongtenzuk immediately sprang into action. They took advantage of an injury to Ozumi’s key attacker, Hinovi Kiba, and won the second set convincingly with a score of 25-14.
The third set saw MH10’s attacks become more precise and decisive. Ozumi made a strong push at 15-11, but MH10 persisted and leveled the score at 19-19 before a timeout. Both teams put up a competitive game, but MH10 managed to snatch the third set with a score of 25-22.
In the fourth set, the pressure was on Ozumi, but they led by 9-7. MH10 then called a timeout, and although they missed many attacks, they managed to level the score at 24-24. Ozumi, however, held their nerve and pushed the match to the decider after clinching the fourth set 30-28.
The fifth set was a gripping showdown. MH10 took an early 4-0 lead, but Ozumi fought back, leveling the score at 5-5 after a timeout. It was an exchange of powerful spikes, with Ozumi’s Vimechozo leading the charge. Ozumi secured consecutive points, leading 13-11, and ultimately clinched the championship by winning the final set 15-13.
This victory marks a historic moment for Ozumi Volleyball Team, who proved their mettle in their debut tournament appearance. They overcame the formidable MH10 to claim the prestigious championship title. Volleyball fans witnessed an extraordinary display of skill, strategy, and determination in this championship battle, making it one of the most memorable events in the history of the tournament.
Three individual prizes were given: Player of the tournament was awarded to Reshitemjen of MH-10, Best Setter awarded to Imnaakum of Ozumi Volleyball Team, while the Best Spiker was awarded to Wanglem of Ozumi Volleyball Team.
19 teams from different districts participated at the 16th Imchaba Master Memorial Nagaland Open Volleyball Trophy 2023.
Earlier, Thsuvisie Phoji, Deputy Commissioner, Mokokchung, graced the closing ceremony as the Chief Patron. In his speech, he congratulated the teams for their dedication to reach the finals and hoped that more teams will participate in the future. He encouraged all the teams participating in the tournament, especially those teams participating from outside the district, to become ambassadors of peace and friendship and to foster unity and understanding among the Nagas.
Earlier in the day, the third-place match was played between Peren District Volleyball Association and Chienino Brothers, Kiruphema where the later won in straight sets (25-20, 25-20).
Speaking to reporters after the match, Imojungla, the owner and manager of Ozumi Volleyball Team, shared the inspiring story behind the team’s formation. She explained that the team was created with the aim of uplifting and dedicating their efforts to the youth.
Having battled and survived cancer, she felt a deep sense of gratitude and a desire to give back to the community by providing a platform for young individuals to showcase their talents and pursue their passion in the sport. Her primary goal was to uplift and empower the youth, offering them opportunities for growth and development through volleyball.