The G Rio Memorial Volleyball Trophy (12th Kohima Open Tournament) for men and women concluded on 20th November 2025 at the Kohima Local Ground (Khuochiezie), marking another successful edition of the annual event organized by the Kohima District Volleyball Association (KDVA).
In the men’s category, Zing-zing Kezo Town emerged champions after defeating MH-10 Kohima 3–0 (25-18, 30-28, 25-20), securing a cash prize of INR 1.5 lakh. The runners-up received INR 80,000. In the women’s final, MADFA outplayed Teen Star with a straight 3–0 victory (25-15, 35-14, 25-9) to win INR 80,000, while the runners-up took home INR 50,000.
Women’s semi-finalists Titans Club and Serenity Spikers received INR 15,000 each, and men’s semi-finalists Kazi Najrul Assam and Kiruphema Youth Organization were awarded INR 25,000 each. Individual awards, carrying INR 5,000 each, went to Mani (Best Spiker) and Joyson (Best Setter) in the men’s category, and Sangita Das (Best Spiker) and Lhingpichoi (Best Setter) in the women’s category.
C Manpon Konyak, MLA, graced the closing ceremony as the Guest of Honor. The programme featured a special number by Seyiekuolie Bio, followed by the final match and the prize distribution. Rükravolie Rülho, Co-convenor of the Organising Committee, delivered the vote of thanks. This year’s tournament drew participation from teams across Nagaland, Assam, and Manipur.
Addressing the gathering, Manpon Konyak paid tribute to the family of Late G. Rio, acknowledging their contributions to Nagaland through leaders such as Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio and Advisor Zhaleo Rio. He emphasized the family’s enduring impact on public service and community development.
Konyak highlighted volleyball as a sport that fosters unity of “mind, heart and soul,” while commending the KDVA for its dedicated efforts. Reflecting on the present social climate, he stated that Naga society is in a “transition period,” noting: ”Nagas in Nagaland are not united, whereas Nagas all over the world are united as a Naga.” He urged the youth to build a future grounded in identity, purpose, and responsibility.
He further encouraged the community to treat cultural events and public gatherings as opportunities to preserve heritage, reinvent themselves, and generate meaningful ideas for collective progress. (DPRO Kohima)