Guest of honourGihuka K. Zhimo, President, All Sumi Students’ Union along with the ZASA Officials, Kukami (GB’s), Referee and Football Final Match Players. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | January 11
The closing ceremony of the 37-U Zunheboto Area Sports Association (ZASA) Kukami Trophy was held at the District Sports Council Ground in Zunheboto on January 11. The event was graced by Gihuka K. Zhimo, President of the All Sumi Students’ Union (SKK), as the guest of honour.
The programme was chaired by Kipito K. Achumi, Vice President of ZASA. In his address, Gihuka expressed gratitude to the elders and Gaon Buras (GBs) for their continued support of youth development through sports. He emphasized that hosting such events is no easy task and stressed the importance of collective progress not only in sports but across all sectors of society.
Gihuka further highlighted the need for local leaders to advocate for the government to improve and modernize sports infrastructure, which has been in a poor state for the past 5-6 decade. He also urged the community to focus on securing sponsorship for youth training, to better equip young people so that they can even compete for national-level competitions.
A special presentation was made by Zaka A. Achumi, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Kashiho N. Yeptho, Vice President of ZASA. The event concluded with the distribution of prizes by the Games and Sports Secretary of ZASA, followed by a benediction pronounced by Rev. N. Atozhe Awomi, Pastor of Yemishe Baptist Church.
The 37-U Zunheboto Area Sports Association Kukami Trophy sports results: in football, Natha New emerged as the champion, followed by Natha Old in second place; in men’s volleyball, Sheyipu claimed the title, with Kawoto finishing second; in women’s volleyball, Natha New won the championship, while Asukho took second place; in badminton, Locho won the men’s doubles, with Baimho as the runner-up, while Baimho triumphed in the men’s singles, followed by Lochomi in second; Sheyipu won the women’s doubles, with Kawoto securing the runner-up spot; and the Discipline Cup was awarded to Lochomi.
In an interview with officials and elders from Natha New Village, the football team was lauded for their outstanding performance. The team celebrated their unbeaten run, noting that despite fierce competition, they managed to keep their defense intact throughout the tournament.
“It was amazing to go through the entire tournament without conceding a single goal,” said one of the players. “We are grateful for the support from our village and the opportunity to represent Natha New on this stage. We have worked hard, and this victory is a testament to that dedication,” another player added.The football team’s total of 19 goals, scored across five matches, solidified their place as champions of the tournament, an achievement that will be remembered in Zunheboto for years to come.
