The first Li Ning Northeast Invitational Badminton Tournament 2023, organized by Mokokchung District Badminton Association (MDBA) got underway today at the MDBA Indoor Stadium, Mokokchung. The Tournament is organized by the MDBA under the aegis of Mokokchung District Sports Council and Nagaland Badminton Association, in commemoration of 50 years of badminton in Nagaland.
A total of 85 competitors are competing in the tournament, including 12 from Manipur and 4 from Assam, while the rest are from various districts of Nagaland. The inaugural program was graced by Col Rahul Gurung, Commandant 12 Assam Rifles as the special guest.
In his welcome address, Martoshi Jamir, President MDBA stated that the tournament is held with a vision – MDBA Vision 2040 – with the objective of producing Olympians in the game of badminton from the district. He also said that MDBA is planning to establish a badminton academy in Mokokchung, for which suggestions and advice from those who have already established academy, would be welcomed.
The Deputy Commissioner and President Mokokchung District Sports Council, Tsüvisie Phoji, also delivered a short speech.
Col Rahul Gurung in his speech remarked that badminton is a captivating and dynamic sport that requires agility, quick decision-making and strategic planning, requiring one to judge their opponents’ moves and make instant decisions, consequently improving your mental ability. Thinking quickly and responding accordingly has a positive impact on a sportsman’s brain, he said, further adding that games and sports play an important role in shaping a person’s personality.
Gurung also appreciated the MDBA, MDSC and NBA for providing such a platform for young players. He also declared the tournament open.
The inaugural function was chaired by Dr. Moalemla Imchen, Asst. Professor, FAC, while ABAM Social Concern Co-Ordinator, Limasangwa Longkumer pronounced invocation and Imsusong Jamir presented a special song.
The commencement of the tournament was conducted by the Tournament Director, T Molung Aier. The various categories of the tournament includes Women’s Doubles, Men’s Doubles, Men’s 75 + Doubles, Men’s 85 + Doubles, Men’s 95 + Doubles, and Men’s 105 + Doubles.
The tournament will be played across six doubles categories, including Women’s Doubles, Men’s Doubles, Men’s 75+ Doubles, Men’s 85+ Doubles, Men’s 95+ Doubles, Men’s 105+ Doubles.
While the total prize pool amounts to Rs 4 lakhs, an additional ‘match winner’s purse’ has been set aside for each match whereby cash prizes will be given to each winner in every match of the tournament. The tournament will culminate on 15th December, 2023.
