The 5th Padmashree W. Nokdenlemba Open Volleyball Tournament 2024 commenced today under the theme “One Team, One Spirit” organized by the Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM) at the Multi Sports Complex, Mokokchung. The event was graced by Sharingain Longkumer, Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, as the guest of honor.
In his brief address, Sharingain emphasized the importance of sports in personal development, urging the players to display sportsmanship and to use the opportunity to learn, grow, and improve. Longkumer also paid tribute to Padmashree W Nokdenlemba and urged the attendees to emulate the leader’s exemplary character and leadership. Nokdenlemba was the first president of AKM and was awarded the Padmashree in 003 in the field of literature and education.
Reflecting on the tournament’s theme, Longkumer remarked that this principle applies not only to sports but also to various aspects of life, including society and professional settings.
Longkumer also noted that this year marks the 60th anniversary of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly.
A total of nine teams are competing in the three-day tournament that will run till 11 October.
Ever Green Club, Ungma; Temolunger Club; G-Sports Mokokchung; Changtongya Volleyball Association Junior; United Changki; Changtongya Volleyball Association; Michazou Kohima; Youngster United; and Doyang Spikers are the nine teams participating in the tournament.
The winners will receive 1 lakh rupees, the runners-up 50,000 rupees, and semi-finalists 20,000 rupees each. Individual award winners will receive 10,000 rupees.
Changtongya Volleyball Association are the defending champions of the tournament last played in 2022.
In the inaugural match of the tournament, United Changki defeated Evergreen Club Ungma in a closely fought contest, winning 25-22, 25-22, 25-23, and 25-17.