The 2nd Winter Challenge Badminton Tournament, organised by the Badminton Association Khensa (BAK) under the aegis of the Mokokchung District Badminton Association (MDBA) kicked off on December 18 at the Multi Purpose Community Hall, Khensa. The tournament is underway on the theme “Smashing Barriers.” Atsungba Walling, ADC Mokokchung, graced the programme as the Guest of Honour. The tournament will conclude on December 20.
In his address, Atsungba Walling acknowledged the Badminton Association Khensa (BAK) for successfully organizing the tournament. He stated that organizing a tournament is never an easy task, as it involves physical effort, financial commitments, time management, and various other challenges. However, he noted that such efforts are worthwhile as they help promote the game and provide a platform for players.
Speaking on the development of badminton, he highlighted the strong contribution of Asian countries and mentioned that the sport was introduced in the Summer Olympic Games and noted its global recognition. He said that while people love sports and eagerly look forward to events such as football tournaments, not everyone can become a sportsman, as it requires dedication and sustained effort.
Walling emphasized that becoming a successful sportsperson demands physical fitness, mental toughness, and emotional strength, describing these qualities as core essentials. He observed that these qualities are often lacking as many aspire to achieve everything at once, and encouraged the players to cultivate patience, discipline, and a positive attitude.
He shared that what he admires most about being a sportsperson is the disciplined way of life it demands. Referring to competition, he said that in every game there is always a winner and a loser. He reminded that a winner today may face defeat tomorrow, and therefore urged winners to remain humble and continue working harder to improve.
For those who lose, he encouraged self-reflection and introspection, stating that the right mindset is essential for growth. He further encouraged the continuation of such tournaments, stating that the platform should not be limited to Khensa youth alone, but should also serve the Aos and the Nagas in general.
Imlitemsu, Convenor of the Organizing Committee, informed that the Badminton Association of Khensa (BAK) was established in 2016, and the first edition of the WCBT was held in 2019 on the theme ‘Nurturing Excellence’. The inaugural edition featured categories such as Under-11, Under-13, Under-15, Under-17. However, the tournament could not continue in the following years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
He stated that the association has revived the tournament this year with the organization of the second edition, with the primary focus on engaging young players in sports for their physical and mental well-being. At the same time, the tournament also aims to promote physical fitness and health consciousness among veteran players and senior citizens.
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Imlitemsu noted that only two junior categories, Under-13 and Under-17 have been included this year, considering the academic commitments of children. Two veteran categories, 85+ and 95+, have also been introduced, with 16 participants in each category. Altogether, 75 players are participating in this edition, compared to 115 participants in the previous edition.
He added that participants are from across Mokokchung district, including veterans, Mokokchung champion players and state-level players. He further mentioned that coaching and training programmes were conducted during the summer vacation this year under different categories. The tournament, he said, has been organised to encourage young players to continue engaging with the sport, test their progress, and assess the outcomes of their training through competitive play.
Responding to a query on BAK’s long-term vision, particularly in line with the Mokokchung District Badminton Association (MDBA) Vision 2040 to produce future Olympians and players beyond the state level, Imlitemsu stated that since BAK is registered under MDBA, its vision aligns with MDBA’s objectives, and the association follows the programmes and activities undertaken by MDBA.
On whether sports can be pursued as a career through such initiatives, he informed that BAK has produced two state-level umpires, Sashimenba and Tekaremba, who are currently part of the technical committee and officiating at tournaments. He recalled that BAK once dominated the under-age categories and that nine BAK members also represented MDBA at a tournament in Zunheboto earlier. He added that some members have gone on to pursue professional sports training while BAK continues to carry forward MDBA’s vision.
He also informed that eight individuals from the village are involved as line judges for the tournament. The registration fee has been fixed at ₹500 for junior players and ₹1,000 for veteran players. Prize money and certificates will be distributed during the closing ceremony on December 20.
The programme was compered by Imtisunep and Pangersenla. The invocation was pronounced by Mayanger Walling, Pastor of KBA, followed by the welcome address delivered by Arenlong, President of BAK. A short speech was delivered by Lanuakum, President of Khensa Senso Mungdang A special number was presented Merentola T Kichu.
