Under the patronage of the Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA), the Lotha Wrestling Association (LWA) in collaboration with the NWA today launched a curtain raiser program for a ten-day long Intensive Wrestling Training Camp 2024 at VDB Hall, Wokha Town.
Gracing the camp as the Special Invitee, NWA President Vivolie Kezo, spoke on the importance of wrestling which is a traditionally practiced games/sports by forefathers since time immemorial specially in the context of the Nagas. Kezo also reminded that wrestling was also a part of peace making process where quarrels and confrontations were settled through wrestling.
In his address, Kezo outlined the NWA’s ambitious plans, including a 10-day coaching camp for newly established associations, starting with the Lotha Wrestling coaching camp from September 27 to October 7. He announced a series of subsequent camps for the Pochury, Rengma, and Sumi Wrestling Associations, ensuring comprehensive training across the state.
He also highlighted significant upcoming competitions, including the 17th International Hornbill Naga Style Wrestling Competition on December 4 and the Nagaland Op’n Level Tournament on February 25. He expressed pride in the NWA’s commitment to fostering talent, particularly with 36 wrestlers set to represent Nagaland at the 12th National Traditional Wrestling Championship 2024 in Dehradun. Kezo further informed that Nagaland style wrestling will be introduced during the Asian Alysh Belt Wrestling Championship scheduled in the month of November 2024 where Kezo urged all Nagas to be part of that championship as well.
Kezo acknowledged the Deputy CM Y. Patton for his unwaivering and logistic support in all aspect of the NWA pursuance. Credit was also extended to all other Lotha legislators and its officers for their support.
Kezo on behalf of the NWA convey it’s special invitation to the LWA wrestlers to be part of the forthcoming 17th International Naga Wrestling Championship 2024 tentatively scheduled on 4 December 2024 at Khouchiezie and further suggested that the best wrestlers from the camp be provided an opportunity for the said Championship.
Approximately 20 wrestlers from several Ranges were registered to be part of the 10 days camp along with management officials.
NWA prominent wrestlers Visevo Zhasümo, Thepukhoyi Swuro and Hangche-u Zeliang were assigned as the Coach/Trainer for the 10 days camp.
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Mharhomo Lotha, President of the LWA in his welcome address reflected on the association’s journey since its founding three years ago, acknowledging the achievement of Lotha wrestlers in securing six medals. He celebrated Thechamo Murry and Zarenthung as trailblazers in their community’s wrestling success. Lotha appealed all the citizens to take forward wrestling, work alongside NWA events and move ahead in the National and international arena as well. Mharhomo further appealed the NWA to provide possible assistance in the form of technical and other procedural follow up. Expressing confidence with the launching of the training camp, Lotha noted that the community will be greatly motivated and move forward to a higher level in the near future.
Limathung N Yanthan, President of the Lotha Youth Hoho, praised the NWA’s support for young wrestlers, emphasising the opportunity for trainees to transform their lives through this free training. He encouraged participants to seize this moment to strive for excellence and potential representation of their district or state.
Chipen Kikon, President of the Wokha Village Youth Organisation, noted wrestling’s role in promoting fitness and unity within Nagaland. He urged the NWA to expand its outreach to discover and nurture talent from every corner of the state.
Meanwhile, the curtain raiser for the wrestling training camp was chaired by Bichano Murry, Women Coordinator LWA, while Zubeni B Kinghen, Women Pastor, VBE invoked God’s s blessings. Short speeches were delivered by Limhathung N Yanthan, President, Lotha Youth Hoho, Chibenthung P Kikon, President, Wokha Village Youth Organization, while Mhademo Jungio, Youth Director, WTBC pronounced a closing prayer.
