Dignitaries and others during the opening day of the 5th Bishop Abraham Memorial Tournament 2025 on September 30.
Our Correspondent
Kohima | September 30
The 5th edition of the Bishop Abraham Memorial Tournament (BAMT) 2025 commenced on Tuesday at St Joseph’s (Autonomous) College, Jakhama, with hundreds of athletes from across Nagaland participating in the three-day volleyball event under the theme “Run with Faith, Rise in Glory.”
The inaugural ceremony was attended by State Information Commissioner and Advisor, Catholic Association of Nagaland (CAN), Nosazol Charles, as the special guest, and Most Rev Dr James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, as the guest of honour.
Charles recalled his association with Lt. Bishop Abraham, the first bishop of Kohima, describing him as a leader committed to youth and lay associations. He highlighted the values of sports, including unity, discipline, teamwork, and character, urging participants to view the tournament as a celebration of their talent and hard work. He also encouraged the youth to uphold their baptismal vows, resist negativity, and persevere in righteousness.
Rev Fr Kokto Kurian, Director of NCYM, paid tribute to the late Bishop Abraham Alangimattathil, SDB, whose episcopal motto, “A Loving Service to God and Man,” guided his life. He noted that under Bishop Abraham’s leadership, the diocese expanded from 10,000 Catholics and six parishes to over 64,000 Catholics, 39 parishes, and 19 centres. Fr Kurian emphasised that sports teach teamwork, discipline, and perseverance, aligning with the bishop’s legacy of service.
Most Rev Dr James Thoppil highlighted the achievements of Catholic youth in the diocese and announced that the church would support two students each year preparing for the Indian civil service examinations. He urged the youth to pursue professionalism, cultivate competitive spirit, and consider diverse careers including politics and social leadership.
A total of 58 teams, 30 male and 28 female, are participating in the tournament, which also features teams comprising priests and nuns. Winners in both categories will receive Rs 50,000 each, runners-up Rs 30,000, and losing semi-finalists Rs 10,000. Additional prizes will be awarded for Best Discipline Team, Best Player, Best Spiker, and Best Setter.
The opening ceremony included a prayer by Rev Fr Vipral John, presidential address by Dr Rosou Ronald Pohina, welcome note by Rokovizo John, and a special performance by Menuoselie Philip. Stephen J. Kithan administered the oath to participants, and Er Kevisede Emmanuel Pucho delivered the vote of thanks. The programme was chaired by Medolenuo Ambrocia and Zhovi Peter Dukru. The tournament will continue till October 2.
