SBCK organises ‘Kingdom Kicks’ futsal tournament in Kohima

Our Correspondent 
Kohima | October 2

The Youth Department of the Sumi Baptist Church Kohima (SBCK) on Friday organised the second edition of its futsal tournament, ‘Kingdom Kicks’, at NS Turf, Nagabazar, Kohima.

Gracing the opening ceremony as the special guest, Roko Angami, OSD (Sports), Department of Youth Resources and Sports, Government of Nagaland, lauded the organisers for bringing together youth members from 10 colonies in Kohima.

“Sport is a powerful universal language that transcends boundaries, culture and differences,” Roko said, adding that sports bring people together and foster unity, friendship and mutual understanding.

He called upon the youth to use their energy, creativity, talent and influence for good.

“Let sports bring us together, let the Church become a place where young people can discover their God-given gift and use them positively,” said Roko, a former international football player.

He said the futsal field could also become a mission field, where “we demonstrate Christian character, friendship, discipline and love”.

Commending the church for choosing futsal as a means to bring people together, he said the sport demanded teamwork, trust, communication and sacrifice.

“No one succeeds alone. This reflects Christian fellowship itself, different gifts, but one common purpose,” he said.

Stating that football had been the foundation of his journey, Roko said the game had given him an identity, a purpose and the opportunity to stand where he was today.

He said football had shaped his life and, more importantly, introduced him to people from different walks of life and from different parts of the state and the country.

The opening ceremony was compered by Kuputoli Sema, while Inoto Yeptho invoked God’s blessings. Hikato Sumi administered the oath to the 10 participating teams, while Khekavi Yeptho, Pastor, SBCK, pronounced blessings for the tournament.