The inaugural edition of the Mithun–Rhino Pickleball Championship 2026 was held at The Fitness House, Dimapur on 14th March 2026. The championship is being organised by the Nagaland Pickleball Association in collaboration with the Assam Pickleball Association.
Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, Sharingain Longkumer graced the inaugural function as the special guest. Longkumer in his address said that the championship symbolises the spirit of friendship and cooperation between Nagaland and Assam. He remarked that the choice of Mithun and Rhino as symbols reflects the strength, pride and identity of the two states. Describing the event as a meaningful step in promoting sports diplomacy in the region, he said such initiatives help bring communities together and strengthen bonds across state borders.
Highlighting the growing popularity of pickleball, the Speaker said the sport is gaining attention for its energy, excitement and accessibility, making it suitable for players of different age groups. He also acknowledged the efforts of the Nagaland Pickleball Association and Assam Pickleball Association for organising the championship and promoting the sport in the region. Longkumer urged the players to compete with determination, upholding sportsmanship, fairness, humility in victory, and grace in defeat. He reminded them that success in sports, as in life, is achieved through discipline, hard work, perseverance and commitment. He added that the championship provides an opportunity not only for competition but also for learning, growth and building lasting friendships among young athletes of the Northeast. 
Senior Vice President of Naga People's Front, Charlie Sekhose, highlighted the important role of sports in fostering discipline, teamwork and a strong sense of community. He said the championship is significant as it brings together players from Nagaland and Assam, reflecting the spirit of sportsmanship and cooperation between the two states.
He also appreciated the efforts of the organisers, volunteers and partners for successfully hosting the event and encouraged the players to compete with integrity and enjoy the experience. Emphasising that sports are not only about winning but also about learning and personal growth, he expressed hope that the sport would continue to inspire and encourage more young athletes in the future.
The programme was chaired by Vice President, Nagaland Pickleball Association, Kakivi Chishi. Short speeches were also delivered by President of Nagaland Pickleball Association, Nathan Kaurinta Zeliang and Nazneen Rahman, Secretary of the Assam Pickleball Association and Northeast Development Officer, IPA.
The two-day championship, being held from March 14 to 15, will feature matches across various categories including men’s singles, men’s doubles, women’s doubles, mixed doubles, open men’s category, 40+ and veterans 45+.

(Samuel IA Chumoukedima)