Roko Angami and others during 57th Secheku Range Sports Association Meet on January 24

Kohima, January 25 (MExN): The 57th sports meet of Secheku Range Sports Association (SRSA) concluded on January 24 last at Chizami with Roko Angami, OSD (Sports), Department of Youth Resources and Sports, Nagaland, and a former international football player, gracing the valedictory guest.
In his address, Angami highlighted the evolution of sports and stressed that there are no shortcuts for sportspersons. He stated that performance on the field is the sole determinant of success and emphasized that sports now require mental strength alongside physical fitness. He underlined the importance of a healthy diet and self-discipline for maintaining both physical and mental health.
Angami noted that while Nagaland has immense potential, its athletes often lack consistency, practicing only during events and failing to sustain a competitive edge. He observed that in earlier times, individuals were able to secure good jobs despite limited education, but modern-day competition in every field, including sports, has become much tougher.
He urged the youth to give their full focus to any profession, whether in studies or sports, stating that partial efforts cannot match the dedication of others giving their 100 percent. He added that athletes underperform due to over-participation in multiple events and highlighted issues of dependency and indiscipline among Nagas, emphasizing that discipline must come from within. The former footballer also pointed out that indiscipline in sports leads to setbacks, particularly in football, where players often rebel after not being selected.
He stressed that success requires patience, hard work, and commitment, both on and off the field. Angami highlighted the growing opportunities in sports, including the Nagaland Super League (NSL), where athletes are now earning well.
He said the government, under the leadership of the Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, is fully supporting sports, reflecting its commitment to youth development. He urged the public to extend greater support to the government for further progress and development.
He later kicked off the final match between the two final football teams.
Angami was accompanied by Kohima District Football Association (KDFA) president, Mhasimhalie Matthew Yhome and his colleagues and also Zhadima Students Union.
The valedictory function was chaired by SRSA General Secretary Vihoto Wozah, while invocation was pronounced by Rev Mese Rhakho, advisor, Chizami Baptist Church. The programme also witnessed special performances from Zelome Youth Society and Mhasizolie Metsieo. Vote of thanks was proposed by SRSA Treasurer Tsheku Rhakho while prize distribution was led SRSA Games &Sports Secretary Paul Krocha.
During the seven day meet, Losami Youth Society emerged as the overall champion securing 17 gold, 8 silver, and 3 bronze medals. In Men’s Football, The final match saw EYP Youth Society defeating Razeba Town 1-0, with Seketou Lohe scoring the decisive goal.
Individual awards, Kozo Kapfo, Muvio Zholia and Kekhro T Lohe won Golden Boot, Golden Ball and Golden Glove respectively.
In Women’s Football, Losami Youth Society claimed the championship, with Chizami Sports Association (CSA) as runners-up.
Individual awards: Golden Ball- Hitiu Tsido, Golden Glove- Neikopeu Venuh
Golden Boot-Tshevewuu Doulo, Wemhewuu Akami, and Wewutou T Mero
In Men’s Volleyball, Thetsumi Youth Society secured the championship while Zhavame Youth Society stood runner-up. Best Spiker- Kape Therie and Best Setter-Zetshete Lasuh.
In Women’s Volleyball, CSA emerged as champions with Zhavame Youth Society finishing second. Best Spiker- Swuselu Rume and Best Setter-Wewutou T. Mero
CSA clinched the championship of Men’s Basketball with Tsupfume Youth Society as runners-up. Highest Scorer: Sousa Domeh and MVP-Terho Lohe
Women’s Basketball, CSA claimed the champion title with Mesulumi Youth Society in second place. Highest Scorer- Tshemheteu Wetsah and MVP: Alice Kenye
Individual Champions: Men: Wede T Mero (CSA) and Women: Chekeleu Mekrisuh (Losami Youth Society).