The 7th State Games for the Disabled, organized by Special Olympics Nagaland (SON) and Aoyimti Baptist Arogo church, concluded in Dimapur on September 30. In a historic first, the event was fully sponsored by the church. (Photo Courtesy: SON)
Dimapur, October 2 (MExN): The 7th State Games for the Disabled, a collaborative effort between Aoyimti Baptist Arogo, Dimapur, and Special Olympics Nagaland (SON), concluded on September 30 at the Aoyimti Futsal Court, Dimapur.
In a first, the event was fully sponsored by a church, which SON stated in a press release as a “milestone in promoting inclusion through sports.”
The games, supervised by Renjamo Y Ngullie, SON President for Dimapur District, featured 93 special athletes, including blind and deaf participants. They competed in athletics, bocce, and football under the guidance of 18 SON coaches led by Master Trainers Achum Ovung, Jangtsumen Tzudir, and Imlitwati Lemtur.
All competitions adhered to the unique Special Olympics Divisioning rules, designed to ensure fair play based on each athlete’s ability and interest.
The event saw support from various quarters: Nagaland Parents Association for Disabled (NAPAD) sponsored the Kohima team’s travel; Dimapur Deputy Commissioner supported coaches’ jerseys and miscellaneous expenses; and the Keystone Education Society facilitated on-the-spot Aadhaar enrolment for athletes. Youth volunteers from Aoyimti Baptist Arogo also served as assistant coaches.
SON Chief Coach, Among, highlighted that Nagaland’s special athletes have won over 140 medals at national and international levels. Among emphasised the need for State Government recognition and cash awards for deserving special athletes who continue to shine despite challenges.
Aren, SON Area Director, expressed concern over the National Office discontinuing travel reimbursements and support for games post-pandemic, which has adversely affected participation at national events. Despite these challenges, SON coaches and members continue to render selfless service towards our special athletes without any fees or salary since inception till date.
The SON also acknowledged the Aoyimti Baptist Arogo Dimapur’s previous support for a Sports Day on October 12, 2024, strengthening the partnership.
The event, attended by approximately 170 people, concluded with a feast. Under the leadership of Pastor In-Charge Yashila, the church was credited with creating a “lasting legacy of inclusion and inspiration,” it added.
