The Nagaland Aainball Association (NABA) inaugurated its introductory program, in collaboration with the Department of Youth Resources and Sports, for Aainball sports training at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima today.
Aainball is a newly developed sports centered on color concentration and coordination, blending prominent colors and movements that engage all parts of the body and require a diverse set of skills
Pratap Singh, the Founder President of the Aainball Federation of India, highlighted the unexplored sporting talent of the Northeast region in his address, emphasizing the necessity of a suitable platform to nurture this potential and bring it to the forefront of the sports arena.
Singh recognized the enduring popularity and significance of established sports such as football and basketball. However, he pointed out the growing difficulty in finding opportunities within these highly competitive sports, asserting the potential for establishing new platforms in various sports, pointing to the opportunities offered by the game of Aainball.
Supported by an encouraging administration, Singh conveyed optimism about the success of efforts to promote Aainball in the region. He envisioned a future where athletes from Nagaland could compete at the international level, highlighting the promising outlook for the expansion of sports in the Northeast.
Aainball is a game is open to individuals of all genders and ages, making it accessible to everyone, and the prospect of an international league is on the horizon. Additionally, it was announced that this newly developed game will be introduced across all districts and throughout Asia.
“We are dedicated to the development of the sports and are committed to advancing it to the best of their abilities within the next two to three years,” said MLA Khuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, President of NABA, stressing on the willingness to give Aainball a chance and fully committ to promoting it if there is public interest.
Nienu highlighted that aainball originated in Morocco, which is located in North Africa. “Aainball involves significant running, as well as the use of hands and feet for shooting and scoring. Furthermore, it integrates techniques from athletics, football, and basketball,” said Nienu.
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He also noted that athletes with experience in football and basketball are well-suited to Aainball. While the Nagaland Aainball Association was established in collaboration with the Aainball Federation of India in 2020, there was a delay in forming an official team. The MLA expressed his delight at the successful formation of the team. He encouraged all executives to show sincerity and dedication in driving forward the progress of this game. Nienu also introduced the advisors during the event: Sandeep Madhukar Tamgadge, ADGP (law and order); T. Ao Chuba, Conservation of Forest; and Imlibenla wati Nienu, Former Miss Nagaland.
The program commenced with a blessing by Pastor Kezevituo Pucho. A special prayer for the Nagaland team was offered by Pastor Ruokuolhoulie Solo of the Flames of Fire Baptist Church in Kohima.
