36th Mokokchung District Badminton Open Championship 2024 commences
The 36th Mokokchung District Badminton Open Championship 2024 organized by the Mokokchung District Badminton Association (MDBA) commenced on 11 July. The tournament, one of the oldest active district-level tournaments in Mokokchung district, features 57 male and 16 female participants, totaling 75 competitors, who will compete in 22 categories. The event is scheduled to culminate on July 13.
The opening ceremony was held at the Indoor Badminton Stadium, Mokokchung. The inaugural program was graced by N Chuba Phom, District Planning Officer as the Special guest.
President of MDBA, Martoshi, in his welcome address said that this tournament is one of the oldest active tournaments within the district, having been initially started in 1986.
He emphasized the importance of the tournament, noting that the winner will represent the district in the upcoming Inter-District Tournament, which will be held in Chumukedima and organized by the Nagaland Badminton Association under the aegis of the Badminton Association of India. Martoshi added that this tournament serves as a gateway for badminton players aspiring to advance in the field, asserting that no one can progress in badminton without competing in this event.
While addressing the audience, N Chuba Phom stated that it is high time for the Nagas to choose sports as careers, claiming that the Nagas are more talented than the rest of the world. Referring to the Bible, he reminded that everyone is blessed with a unique talent and encouraged people to recognize and focus on their individual gifts.
He urged parents to move away from prioritizing government or any other jobs and instead to recognize, understand, and support their children’s talents. He stressed the importance of parents pushing their children to pursue their specific fields of interest.
Phom also said that a sportsperson should be disciplined and humble, adding, “If you are disciplined, humble, have talent, and works hard, naturally success will follow you.” He also urged people not to waste their talents, asserting that talent is one of the most precious gifts from God.
Phom added that success in sports cannot be achieved through cheating but through sheer hard work. Concluding his speech, he urged the people not to waste their talent but rather to work hard and bring recognition to Nagaland.