Officials of the Nagaland Judo Association addressed a press conference in Mokokchung to announce the first State Judo Championship, scheduled for September 10–12 at Eden Academy. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Mokokchung | September 3
The Nagaland Judo Association (NJA) will organise the state’s first State Judo Championship at Eden Academy, Mokokchung, from September 10 to 12 under the theme, “United by Judo, Driven by Excellence.”
The announcement was made during a press conference attended by NJA President I Temsu Jamir, vice-president and tournament convenor Rongsentoshi Jamir, and general secretary, tournament director Somnath Chakraborty and other members.
The three-day championship will feature boys and girls as well as men’s and women’s categories. Participants will compete across 17 age groups, ranging from children aged six and above to the senior category, with six to seven weight categories in each age group.
The organisers said they have received registrations from eight districts, including Zunheboto, Phek, Mon, Meluri, Dimapur, Kohima, Peren and Mokokchung. With 77 participants registered from outside the district, the association expects more than 300 athletes, with participation potentially reaching nearly 400.
Around 200 medals will be awarded during the championship, along with certificates, trophies and mementoes for outstanding players and the best-performing team.
To ensure smooth conduct of the tournament, two referees from West Bengal will provide technical support, alongside two expert referees from Nagaland and a panel of 12 to 15 trained referees.
The association stated that the tournament is being organised on a self-sponsored basis. It will also provide accommodation and food for participants travelling from outside the district.
Established in 2019, the Nagaland Judo Association has received support and encouragement from the Judo Federation of India. The association has previously organised a major Khelo India tournament and conducted various belt examinations and training initiatives across the state.
The association has also appointed coaches in 10 districts to promote the sport at the grassroots level. Its representatives said the overwhelming response to the upcoming championship has encouraged them to work towards hosting national-level tournaments in collaboration with the Judo Federation of India.
The NJA expressed confidence that the championship would help identify young talent and provide athletes from Nagaland with opportunities to compete at national and international levels.
