Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio inaugurated Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground cum opening of the 30th Loyem Memorial Trophy 2022 on 5th November 2022 at Loyem Memorial Ground Tuensang. The Chief Minister was accompanied by Advisor YRS, Er. Zale Neikha, Advisor, PWD (R&B), H. Chuba Chang, Toyang Changkhong MLA, President Angami Sports Association and his team of officials, and others.
Loyem Memorial Astro Turf ground which was inaugurated by the Chief Minister on 5th November 2022 is the second of its kind after Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima in the state. The 30th Loyem Memorial Trophy 2022 is being organized by Chang Wedoshi Setshang (Chang Students’ Conference) with the theme “Goal for Friendship” which is one of the oldest trophies and highest-paid tournaments in the state.
Speaking on the occasion, Neiphiu congratulated and appreciated the stakeholders who participated in the construction with determination and commitment to making the dream project a reality. He wished that the astroturf ground helps in bringing the young talents of the district to national and international levels. He also views that Nagas are good in sports by innate, when we look back to our history right after Indian Independence, a Naga had an opportunity to captain the Indian football team, he added. Nagaland Olympic Association could affiliate with Indian Olympic Association only in the year 2004 after 41 years of its being. He also reiterated the construction of astroturf in every district HQs but he is also concerned about the reliance on the center for funding since Nagaland does not generate enough revenue to construct all immediately, he mentioned some sanctioned astroturf construction in the districts in the next batch. Recently concluded Nagaland Olympic has had an opportunity to select some 300 odd participants who will take part in the North East Olympics to be held in Shillong, he added. He also stressed the importance of cricket and its scope and he also encouraged the people of Tuensang to participate in the cricket matches. On a closing note, he encouraged all to take part in games and sports through which the Nagas can get recognized by others.
Er. Zale Niekha Advisor YRS, in his short speech, stressed the importance of nurturing sports. Toyang Changkhong MLA, in his speech on behalf of Loyem Family, shared the history of how the LMT came into existence and became one of the longest-running trophies of the state. He is also of the view that focusing on the field of sports and games, Music and Arts and skills can also give opportunities to the younger generation in the already saturating employment opportunity of the state.
President Angami Sports Association, also in his short speech, appreciated the gesture of Chang Sports Association for inviting Angami Sports Association for a friendly match in the opening ceremony of the 30th LMT 2022. The president of ASA as a token of friendship invited the Chang community to give the list of those who want to train for wrestling and committed to giving coaching to the interested individuals. He also announced that ASA will be teaming up with wrestlers from Kazakhstan in which he also invited Chang individuals to take part in the coaching. He hoped this friendship shall flourish and grow stronger beyond borders. President CKS also in his short speech appreciated Rio and his government for earmarking Loyem Memorial ground for the construction of the astroturf ground and making a long cherished dream a reality.
The special guest reception was done by Bharat Scouts and Guides Bag Pipe Band, Keynote address was addressed by C. Pongsu President CWS while the welcome address was addressed by M. Mongba, Convenor LMT. Langa presented a special number, while BYE TTBL participated in aerobics.
An exhibition match was played between Angami Sports Association and Chang Sports Association to mark the opening ceremony of the 30th LMT 2022.
(Thungti Chang, IA, Tuensang)
