The Kichutip Sporting Association (KSA), Mokokchung organized a one-day futsal event on 26 August at the Mojabi Futsal Turf, Salangtem Ward. The event was held as a ‘Pre-Silver Jubilee Celebration’ of the KSA and commenced with an invocation led by Bendang Jamir, Associate Jamir of MTBA.
The event began with a welcome address delivered by Imkumniba, Executive Convenor of KSA, followed by a succinct speech by Imkongyanger, Chairman of the Kichutip Ward Council. Adding to the charm of the occasion, Yangersungla Longkumer delivered a captivating performance. The event was graced by Toshi Kichu, who serves as the PRO & PA to the Minister of RD & SIRD, Government of Nagaland, as Special invitee.
Special invitee, Toshi Kichu, while taking inspiration from Lionel Messi, said, “In order to reach a goal and to succeed, first we need to set a goal and focus on it with dedication and hard work.” He underlined that regardless of one’s location or pursuits, laziness remains a formidable barrier to realizing aspirations.
Taking the notable instances of local athletes such as Odilemba and Bendangakum from the Kichutip Ward, Kichu highlighted their accomplishments in Badminton and combat sports as a testament to unrelenting effort.
“We do not have good facilities like other people do but with whatever we have, they understood their talent and used it for the best through hard work and dedication. As a result, they managed to reach state and national levels even from a small ward like ours. Therefore, we can learn much from them,” Kichu said.
Kichu further expounded that the pursuit of dreams often intersects with failures; yet he exhorted the gathering not to surrender or be disheartened in the face of setbacks. Drawing from the resilience of Michael Jordan, he urged them to rise stronger following every stumble.
Moreover, he underscored the burgeoning significance of sports in contemporary society, highlighting the increasing number of opportunities as compared to the old days. He ardently advocated for increased women’s participation in sports, celebrating the accomplishments of two female cricketers from Mokokchung who have ascended to the state level. In addition, he urged the gathering to engage in sports, regardless of innate aptitude, for the sake of keeping oneself healthy and fit.
The program ended with a vote of thanks by Purlemba Kichu, convener of organizing committee.
The competition unfolded across various categories, including 3 teams in the under-13 boys’ category, 8 senior teams, and 2 girls’ teams.
In the under-13 category, Team Mbappe outshone Team Neymar Jr, with Imtinok Kichu, Suneplong, and Moaren emerging as the standout scorers. Noteworthy achievements included Nokyanger being recognized as the best defender, Impongtsung as the best goalkeeper, and Moalijen as the most promising player.
In the senior team category, Team Bendangakum secured victory against Team Moasunep, while the girls’ category saw Team Imnatula prevailing over Team Kikalemla.