The 4th Mokokchung Town Inter-Ward Volleyball Tournament 2025, organized by the Kumlong Sporting Association (KSA) under the aegis of the Mokokchung District Volleyball Association, commenced today at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex, Mokokchung, under the theme “Forging Champions.”
Imkongchuba, Chairman of Mokokchung Municipal Council (MMC), graced the inaugural programme as the Guest of Honour.
A total of five wards — Kichutip Ward, Penli Ward, Mongsenbai Ward, Artang Ward, and Kumlong Ward — are participating in this year’s tournament from among the 18 wards of the town. Defending champion Sungkomen Ward is not participating, making this edition witness comparatively lower participation.
The first match of the tournament was played between Kichutip Ward and Penli Ward, where Kichutip emerged victorious in straight sets with scores of 25-10 and 25-17. In the second match, Kumlong Ward edged past Mongsenbai Ward in a closely contested game with a scoreline of 20-25, 25-22, 17-15. The third match saw Artang Ward clinch victory over Kichutip Ward in a hard-fought contest, with scores of 25-22, 13-25, 15-12.
League matches are currently underway, while the quarterfinals, semifinals, and the final match are scheduled to take place tomorrow at the same venue.
Imkongchuba, in his address, congratulated and appreciated the Kumlong Sporting Association for successfully organizing the fourth edition of the tournament for the sports lovers of Mokokchung Town. He expressed hope that the tournament would continue in the future, providing a platform for players and sports enthusiasts to come together and enjoy the beautiful game.
He remarked that “sports is more than just a game—it is a teacher, a mirror, and a path.” He emphasized that stepping onto the court is not only about winning points or matches, but about showcasing one’s character, values, and discipline. “To be a true sportsman is to value discipline, consistency, humility, and respect. Winning or losing is part of every sport, but the character you display in both moments defines you more than the scoreboard,” he said.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
Imkongchuba highlighted that discipline and consistency are the two keys to success both in sports and in life. He noted that discipline drives one to train even when tired, while consistency turns effort into results. “One day of hard work will not make you a champion, but years of steady commitment will,” he reminded the players.
He also urged players to uphold true sportsmanship beyond the court—in how they treat others, in humility during victory, and in grace during defeat. “Be an example in your discipline, teamwork, and attitude so that others may see and say: ‘That is a true sportsman,’” he encouraged.
Further, he drew a distinction between winning and accomplishing, stating that winning is about defeating others, whereas accomplishing is about defeating oneself—one’s laziness, doubts, and excuses. “When you compete only to win against others, your joy ends with the match. But when you compete with yourself, striving every day to be better than yesterday, you rise to new heights. That is true victory,” he added.
Concluding his speech, he reminded that the world of sports is not just about trophies, but about building discipline, consistency, and character. “The wins of today will fade, but the lessons and values you learn will remain for a lifetime. Let us play with passion and purpose, and remember—the greatest victory you can claim is not the trophy, but the person you become in the process,” he said.
The programme was hosted by Dr Obendangla, with invocation by Imna Jamir, Associate Pastor (Youth Ministry), KBA. Imtitoshi, Chairman of Kumlong Ward Yimden, delivered the greetings address, followed by a special song by Limayanger. The Technical Committee led the oath-taking and introduction of players.
