The 31st edition of the prestigious Loyem Memorial Trophy Kick started at Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground in Tuensang on Tuesday under the theme “Soar High on Sports Rather Than Drugs”. The tournament is being organised by Chang Wedoshi Setshang in collaboration with Chang Sports Association.
Imtichoba, MLA and chairman DPDB Tuensang, graced the opening trophy as the Special Guest where he appreciated CWS and CSC for their initiative and also lauded the theme. The MLA flagged that substance abuse was killing many talented youngsters and urged the youth to fight drugs.
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He stressed on the importance of good health stating that even if one is brave, intelligent and blessed with good skills, without good health one cannot move forward. Imtichoba encouraged the youth to grab the opportunities in sports with determination and not to aim to take it up professionally and not just as a hobby.
The MLA wished the teams the best and further urged them to show their talents, discipline and skills by citing good example for the younger generation to follow.
Earlier, the Special Guest received a warrior’s reception from CWS cultural troupe.
President of Chang Wedoshi Setsang, C Pongshu, in his welcome note, narrated a brief history of Loyem Memorial Trophy. He said that 31 years back amid the tense situation in Tuensang, the erstwhile Chang Students’ Conference leader envisioned bringing coherence in the society by involving the youngsters in games and sports. It was in 1992 that the tournament finally came into existence in the memory of Loyem Chang under former minister late Changkong Chang.
The first match of the tournament was played between Songkuklang FC and Aumei FC, while second match was played between Kuthur FC and DEF Tuensang where Songkuklang FC and DEF Tuensang emerged as the winners.