DIMAPUR, November 30 (MExN): The LKM Open Penalty Shootout, organised in aid of the LKM Sports Excellency Award, concluded on November 29 with a total prize pool of Rs 1,55,000. The event was held alongside the LKM Night Carnival, which also came to a close with strong public participation.
Councillor I. Sentinuklu Jamir attended the tournament as Special Guest. Addressing the gathering, he called on young people to be disciplined players and observed that Nagas possess exceptional sporting talent but are often unable to fully utilise their potential due to the lack of adequate sports infrastructure. He appealed for greater government priority toward developing facilities for youth.
The purpose of the LKM Sports Excellency Award was highlighted by LKM Sports Secretary Imtinuklu Jamir, who stated that the tournament was originally initiated by the apex body in 1940 and handed over to LKM in 1951. He said the event has long united the Langpangkong range, and the Sports Excellency Award was introduced to preserve this legacy and encourage young talents to reach state, national, and international levels.
After the final round of the penalty shootout, 6 Brothers were declared champions, while RM Boys finished as runners-up. Akuli received the Best Goalkeeper award.
The Night Carnival, organised in support of the same cause, also concluded on a positive note with a large turnout and visible community participation.
LKM conveyed gratitude to all participants, supporters, leaders, well-wishers, and the public for their contributions and presence, stating that the successful completion of both the sports event and the carnival reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sports, preserving its legacy, and nurturing young talents across the range.
