Evergreen Club Ungma’s apology accepted by MDVA
Following the crowd ruckus that erupted during the final match of the recently concluded 18th Imchaba Master Memorial Nagaland Open Volleyball Trophy 2025, which briefly halted play, the Evergreen Club Ungma has tendered a written apology to the Mokokchung District Volleyball Association (MDVA). The club, which eventually went on to win the match after play resumed, also met with the MDVA on Saturday. The MDVA, after thorough deliberation, accepted the apology, and all issues pertaining to the matter have been amicably resolved.
The disruption during the final match between defending champions MH-10 Kohima and eventual champions Evergreen Club Ungma on Friday night occurred when sections of the crowd invaded the court and engaged in a brawl. The situation was brought under control by the organizers and security, after which play resumed. The score read 3–3 in the fifth and deciding set after both teams had won two sets each in a highly competitive and sensational match before jam-packed galleries of emotionally charged spectators at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex, Mokokchung.
Volleyball has a huge fan following in Mokokchung and is a major crowd-puller, with several tournaments held throughout the year. It is also the only sport, after football, for which spectators buy tickets in Mokokchung. In recent years, due to its growing popularity, various commentators and stakeholders have observed the need for a dedicated volleyball stadium in Mokokchung with adequate amenities, including barricades, to host this widely popular sport.
When inquired if any disciplinary action was initiated against the clubs for the unruly behaviour of their supporters, President of the MDVA, Pokyim Jamir, confirmed to Mokokchung Times that Evergreen Club Ungma, apart from tendering its apology, had also offered to compensate for the damages caused during the final match incident. However, he said the MDVA declined the offer after accepting the club’s apology. The matter has been resolved amicably, and all parties and individuals involved have been absolved, he added.
