The first edition of Lt. Toshi Wongtong memorial football tournament began on 8th January with the first semi-final match between Old Showuba Village Students union and Shiponger Village Students Union. The program was graced by Advisor, Youth Resources and Sports and Chairman DPDB Shamator, S. Keoshu Yimchunger, as the Special Guest.
Yimchunger in his address urged all the youngsters to be self-disciplined, hardworking and humble and put God first in all their endeavours. He also spoke about the vision of Viksit Bharat, which aims to make India a powerhouse in sports and talent, noting that the youth of the state possess immense raw talent and great potential across various games and sports.
He expressed appreciation to the family of Lt. Toshi Wungtong and Yimkhiung Akherü Arihako YAA for coming up in support and organising the event to uplift the young talents of the area and extended his best wishes to all the finalists.
L. Shahoto Yimchunger, Joint Secretary of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), and Dokiu Kecham, brother of Lt. Toshi Wongtong, also addressed and encouraged the gathering and the finalists.
The programme was chaired by Kumlumong Akum and Shihtsangla, with a welcome address by J. Lunsokhiung, Games and Sports Secretary of YAA. The invocation was delivered by Martin, Catechist of St. Xavier Parish, Shamator, and a special number was presented by Amon R. The event concluded with the ceremonial kick-off and decoration of the finalists by the special guest.
(L. Shahoto Yimchunger, IA Shamator)
