Sports events can significantly impact host communities by enhancing community bonding, building better relationships with neighbours and contributing to the economy of a community. At the recent Dr. T. Ao Trophy held in Tuensang for the first time, local residents shared their views to Nagaland Tribune, on the impacts the tournament contributes to their community.
According to Lemshichingmak, sports events makes remarkable changes in the atmosphere of the host community.”Tuensang underwent a visible transformation. Streets were decorated, local businesses flourished with an influx of visitors and the anticipation was palpable. The sound of cheering crowds and the sight of young athletes showcasing their talents on the field created an electrifying atmosphere,” expresses Lemshichingmak. He also acknowledged that the overall organization of the Dr.T.AO Trophy sports event was impressive and well-coordinated, reflecting a strong commitment to promoting sports and unity.
“The organizers ensured smooth logistics from managing teams and schedules to accommodating visitors and maintaining security. The town’s preparation, including the decoration of streets and provision of facilities showcased a high level of community involvement. The event successfully brought together participants and spectators, creating an exciting and inclusive atmosphere,” adds the Tuensang town resident.
Such sports event has inspired greater involvement in sports, especially among the youth, strengthening the community bond and collective spirit.
“What I enjoyed most in the event is the energy and sense of unity it brought to the community, the way the entire town came together to support and celebrate the tournament was inspiring,” says Lemshichingmak.
He believes that the positive impact on local pride and youth engagement in sports will likely inspire more sports and cultural initiatives, encouraging further development in infrastructure and tourism. “This event has positioned tuensang as a vibrant hub for future regional events, fostering long-term growth and collaboration,” Lemshichingmak further adds.
Meanwhile, Chonshenmongba Chang acknowledges that the football enthusiasm in Tuensang has flourished since the inception of the Loyem Memorial trophy as well the Tuensang hosting Dr.T.AO trophy for the first time. This marks a significant milestone that will enhance sportsmanship in the community, providing young athletes with a platform to develop their skills, inspiring them to pursue their passion for the sports.
“While the overall organization of the event was commendable, it is essential to note that 80 percent of the arrangement require improved infrastructure to adequately meet the needs of the spectators. The concept of pride can be bifurcated into constructive and destructive forms. It is observed that certain supporters within a district may exhibit predominantly destructive pride, which can adversely affect community dynamics and relationships. This distinction highlights the need for fostering constructive pride to promote unity and positive engagement,” views Chang.
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Chang added that the recent event has significantly accelerated the development of local amenities, among many factors that can unite people from all walks of life. One significant aspect is the provision of selfless moral support, which fosters genuine camaraderie and collective enthusiasm. Chang is of the firm belief that prestigious events such as the Dr. T. Ao is expected to shape the town’s future, “as it has introduced young people to a platform that enables them to pursue higher aspirations and achieve their goals”.
“Sports events has changed the atmosphere in Tuensang by providing entertainment to the people, I think the overall organization of the sports event is quite satisfactory even though this is the first ever T. Ao Trophy hosted in Tuensang and we are looking forward for better outcome even in the near future, says Tongching.
For Throngtsa Sangtam, the sport event has changed the atmosphere in town igniting the long lost passion and zeal of the community. However, Sangtam acknowledged that many aspects requires development and improvements in terms of infrastructure and amenities. “While there are no big improvement, I can notice small changes,” says Sangtam. By cheering for their teams, Sangtam says, it bolsters unity and bring joy to people.
With the opportunity provided to various business, groups and organizations to open up stalls, Naro, another Tuensang resident, is of the view that such sport events positively impact the community.
“All the people coming together as one and cheering the players is the best thing I enjoyed the most. Hosting big event gives identity to the town and connect people of different tribes, so I believe that it will have a big influence in everything in the days to come,” remarks Naro.
Sharing similar sentiments, Langa views that such sports events has enhanced community ties not only among the spectators but also among the players. “It provided entertainment and stimulating awareness of health and exercise. It has also attract tourists to the areas of town and it has help in promoting sustainable development,” says Langa.
