DIMAPUR, JANUARY 29 (MExN): The first edition of the Ungma Youth Sports Festival 2026 (Under-17) commenced on January 29 at Senayangba Memorial Ground, Ungma Village. The three-day festival is being organised by Sports Society Soyim with the objective of scouting, nurturing and developing young sporting talents from the village.
The festival is being conducted across multiple venues, including Senayangba Memorial Ground, Kordang Futsal Ground and Yimtsüngda Arok Sabang. Competitions are being held in volleyball, futsal, athletics, badminton, table tennis and darts.
The inaugural function was attended by Imtiyapang, councillor, Mokokchung Municipal Council, as the special guest. Addressing the gathering, he spoke on the importance of perseverance and discipline in sports and urged young athletes to take sporting careers seriously. Referring to Kohima Village as a model, he said its long-standing sports culture had produced several state-level sportspersons across disciplines. He also pointed out that sports has emerged as one of the largest employment-generating sectors and encouraged youths to make use of available opportunities through dedication and commitment.
An exhortation was delivered by Sutsungkaba Longkumer Tatar, chairman, Ungma Village Council, who reaffirmed the Council’s continued support to Sports Society Soyim. He also appreciated the initiative for providing a structured platform for youth development through sports.
The welcome address was delivered by Toshiwapang Imsong, while the invocation prayer was offered by T. Chuba Jamir, associate pastor, Ungma Baptist Arogo. A special musical presentation was presented by Temjensosang Longkumer during the programme.
A total of 10 clubs from Ungma Village are participating in the festival, with more than 250 players competing across various categories. As part of the festival’s long-term vision, a selection board has been constituted to identify promising players from different disciplines. Selected athletes will receive further guidance and undergo intensive training under Sports Society Soyim.
