The 85th annual sports meet of the Kigwema Youth Organization (KYO) concluded on Wednesday at Kholera, Kigwema Ground, with a call for youth to strive for excellence in various disciplines.
The three-day event featured competitions in football, volleyball, sepaktakraw, and tug of war for both men and women.
In men’s football, Merama Khel, emerged victorious, defeating Kipho-Seca Khel in the final.
Makhuma Khel clinched the women’s football title, with Merama Khel securing the runners-up position.
In men’s volleyball, Merama Khel secured the championship title, while Kipho-Seca Khel finished as runners-up.
In the women’s category, Khamima Khel emerged as champions, followed by Makhuma Khel.
In sepaktakraw, Merama Khel claimed the men’s title, with Kipho-Seca Khel finishing second. Makhuma Khel took the women’s title, with Khamima Khel as runners-up.
Makhuma Khel also emerged as champions in the tug of war, while Merama Khel finished in second place.
The matches were officiated by the Kohima District Football Referee Association (KDFRA) and the Kohima District Volleyball Association (KDVA).
Speaking as the guest of honor at the closing ceremony, president of the Southern Angami Sports Association (SASA), Dr. Vimezo Kere, urged participants not to limit themselves to village-level competitions but to aim for higher achievements and broader representation.
He highlighted Kigwema’s status as one of the oldest villages with a significant legacy and called on the youth to lead by example in areas beyond sports, including academics and character building.
Dr. Kere emphasized the importance of humility and self-reliance, encouraging the youth to set benchmarks for others to follow.
Earlier, on Monday, president Angami Sports Association (ASA), Ruokuovikho Chale, graced the event as the special guest, while president of the Southern Angami Youth Organization (SAYO), Zasitsolie Beio, served as the match patron on the second day.