The 11th Kohima Open Volleyball Tournament 2024 for men and women, organized by the Kohima District Volleyball Association (KDVA), commenced on October 30 at Indira Gandhi Stadium under the theme, “Transcending through Sports.” The tournament, which has drawn 12 men’s and 5 women’s teams, will unfold over three days and conclude on November 1.
The opening day of the tournament witnessed intense matches in both men’s and women’s categories, with many teams delivering straight-set victories. In the men’s category, Senapati Sporting Club, Japfü Range Volleyball Club, and Blind Spikers Akuluto stood out, each securing wins with straight sets over their competitors.
Senapati Sporting Club triumphed over Küsoma Youth Society (2-0) and later defeated Team Keziekie Kohima (2-0). Japfü Range Volleyball Club defeated Kiruphema Youth Organisation A (2-0) and Mezoma Youth Organisation (2-0). Blind Spikers Akuluto overcame Michazou Jr. Mima (2-0) and Japfü Christian College (2-0). Kiruphema Youth Organisation B claimed victory against BoB Chesezu (2-0) and T.K.K. Jotsoma (2-0).
In the women’s category, Senapati Sporting Club and NAYSA-D showcased strong performances with straight-set victories. NAYSA-D defeated both Shürho Mountain Club and Team Ace Kohima, while Senapati Sporting Club outplayed Team Ace and MADFA Club Dimapur.
Senapati Sporting Club defeated Team Ace (2-0) and MADFA Club Dimapur (2-1). NAYSA-D triumphed over Shürho Mountain Club (2-0) and Team Ace Kohima (2-0). MADFA Club Dimapur rounded off their matches with a win against Shürho Mountain Club (2-0).
During the opening ceremony, special guest, Director of Youth Resources & Sports, Government of Nagaland, Kethosituo Sekhose, addressed the participants, expressing his appreciation for teams joining from Manipur and various parts of Nagaland.
Sekhose highlighted the importance of nurturing volleyball within the state, acknowledging its popularity but noting a lack of infrastructure and sustained support to elevate the sport to its full potential.
“Volleyball is a sport loved by many, yet it hasn’t been developed to the level it deserves over the years,” Sekhose remarked.
He emphasized the role of club culture in fostering sustainability within sports, advocating for the Nagaland Volleyball Association to reinforce and support volleyball clubs across the state. He also expressed hope for a potential Super League system for volleyball, aiming to further professionalize the sport in Nagaland.
The day’s events saw PA to the Chief Minister, Neikeso Zumu, as the match patron, while KDVA president Visasielie Suhu delivered the welcome address.
The KDVA’s technical secretary, Mhalevilie Kere, led the participating teams in the oath-taking ceremony, underlining the association’s commitment to fairness and sportsmanship.
The event was managed by Mhalelhou Mere, Kekhrieneikho Zhiinyii, and Atsiko Kehie, while pastor Sedekhriezo Whuorie of Christian Revival Church Bayavii invoked blessings. A special song by Thenuviu Kets added a celebratory touch to the proceedings.
Upcoming Day 2 Matches (Quarterfinals)
Day 2 will see the teams compete in quarterfinal matches starting at 10 AM, with the anticipation building as top teams vie for a place in the semifinals.
Men’s category:
Senapati Sporting Club vs. Kiruphema Youth Organisation A
- Japfü Range Volleyball Club vs. Küsoma Youth Society, Mima
- Blind Spikers Akuluto VK vs. Bond of Brother Chesezu
- Kiruphema Youth Organisation B vs. Michazou Jr. Mima
Women’s category: - NAYSA-D vs. Senapati Sporting Club
- Team Ace Kohima vs. Shürho Mountain Club Kigwema
- MADFA Dimapur vs. NAYSA-D
- Senapati Sporting Club vs. Shürho Mountain Club Kigwema
- Team Ace Kohima vs. MADFA Club Dimapur.