The 12th Kohima Open Tournament, now renamed the G. Rio Memorial Volleyball Trophy,, officially began on 17 November 2025 with a formal programme at the Kohima Local Ground.
Organized by the Kohima District Volleyball Association (KDVA), the tournament will run till 20 November and features men’s and women’s teams from within and outside Nagaland.
The opening ceremony was graced by Zhaleo Rio, IAS (Retd.), MLA and Advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs. In his address, he expressed deep gratitude to the organizers and participants, noting the tournament’s dual significance as a tribute to his late father, Guolhoulie Rio, and as a platform to promote sports in Nagaland. He thanked KDVA for elevating the tournament each year and shared that his father was a “humble and God-fearing man” who served in the Naga Regiment, later became a pastor, and contributed extensively to community development as Village Council Chairman of Tuophema Basa for 21 years.
Speaking on the importance of sports, Zhaleo said, “Today, sports are no longer just a hobby – it is a profession with opportunities for wealth, fame, and national representation.” He urged players to pursue excellence with discipline, focus, and dedication.
KDVA President Visasielie Suhu announced the renaming of the annual tournament as the G. Rio Memorial Trophy, highlighting that 13 men’s and 12 women’s teams are participating this year. Prize money includes Rs 1,50,000 for the men’s champions and Rs 80,000 for the women’s champions, along with individual awards for best spiker and best setter.
