The first ever combined sports meet between the eight neighbouring colonies of Kohima Town Upper Agri, Lower Agri, Mewibogie, Electrical, Merhulietsa, Agri farm, Forest and Jail Colony under ‘Unity Sports Meet’ was held at Jakhama local ground from October 23-24, 2023 onwards.
MLA, 9-Kohima Town, Dr Tseilhoutuo (Ato) Rhütso emphasizing on “Give Peace a Chance” reminded the gathering that the unifying force of sports and carry that spirit with the players were beyond the field.
Stressing on ‘Unity’ which serve as a powerful catalyst for peace, MLA Rhütso maintained that sports have a remarkable ability to foster unity and regardless of their backgrounds, the field of play becomes a common ground where we can unite in the pursuit of a shared goal. Through sports, one can celebrate diversity and create bonds that transcend differences as it also serves a powerful reminder that together, and one can achieve great things and build a more harmonious world.
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Adding that through sports, essential life lessons – such as the values of respect, cooperation, and fair play can be learnt, Dr Rhütso added that the greatest victories were achieved when people work together, respecting each other’s strengths and weaknesses and with that sense of togetherness extends beyond the game and into the lives of the people, reminding them that when they unite, they can overcome any challenge.
The sports event was held with the primary goal of uniting the eight colonies. The secondary objective was to divert the attention of the youth through sports, given the prevalent issue of substance abuse among them. Lastly, the event aimed to provide a platform for our local young athletes while also promoting their talents within our community.
The program was chaired by Nutso Puro, invocation by All Peoples Church, PR Hill, Kohima, Pastor Hormila, special song by A R Shilu Ozukum. Greeting was delivered by Convenor Ever United, Imtisunep Aier with oath taking by Committee Member, Ever United Imnakilep Jmr.
The first edition included three sports- Football for men, Volleyball for women and Tug of War for men. The committee under the name “Ever United” sponsored the prize money for both football and volleyball winners and runners up. For Football, 1st prize Rs 20,000, runner up was Rs 10,000; for Volleyball, 1st prize was Rs 15,000; runner up prize was Rs 7000; for Tug of War, cash money was Rs10,000.
MLA Ato also expressed hoped that in the coming years more activities like this will be conducted not only through sports but in music and other fields, he urged the people to give a chance to “unity and development to our land”.
