The first open inter-denominational churches 7-a-side futsal tournament kick started on Friday at L Viluo Fifa Pro Turf, Meriema, organized by Miapuonuoko Krotho (Fathers’ department) of Christian Revival Mission Church (CRMC), High School Area.
A total of 49 teams will be facing off in the two-day tournament with participants from different denominations including Baptist, Christian Revival, Catholic and Assembly of God among others from Kohima, Dimapur, Peren and Tseminyu districts.
Speaking at the inaugural programme, associate pastor and chairman of fathers’ department, CRMC, Viluo Angami, said the tournament was organized under the theme “Togetherness in Christ”.
Like the different parts of the human body, he said that all denominations were different parts of the church headed by Christ. He encouraged the gathering to live by the teachings of Christ and spread the message of Christ.
He also advised the players to play in the true spirit of sportsmanship and with Christ-like behaviour throughout the tournament.
He later declared the tournament open.
Winner of the tournament will walk away with a cash prize of Rs. 60,000 while the second, third and fourth position holders will receive Rs. 30,000, Rs. 20,000 and Rs. 10,000 respectively.
Individual prizes including best goalkeeper, player of the tournament etc will receive Rs. 3,000 each while the Best Discipline team will receive Rs. 5,000.
The opening ceremony was chaired by convenor of the organizing committee, Kehoulelie Khoubve, invocation was pronounced by vice chairman MK, CRMC, deacon Neiketholie Pfukri while a song presented by Meshenti Semy.