Mokokchung, 25th September 2026 (Nokinketer News): Savage Setters Volleyball Club Chungtia (SSVCC) staged a remarkable comeback from two sets down to defeat MH -10 Kohima in five sets and clinch the 19th Imchaba Master Memorial Nagaland Open Volleyball Trophy 2026 at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex, Mokokchung. SSVCC overcame MH-10 Kohima 18-25, 12-25, 25-22, 25-22, 15-12 in a closely fought final.
In the third-place playoff, Changtongya Volleyball Association (CVA) defeated Unicorns Tuensang 2-1, winning 15-25, 25-17 and 15-13 to secure third place.
SSVCC’s Limatenzuk was adjudged Best Setter, while teammate Wonglom received the Best Spiker award. MH-10 Kohima’s Obika was named Player of the Tournament, with teammate Sentiyanger receiving the Emerging Player award.
The champions received a cash prize of ₹1 lakh, while the runners-up were awarded ₹70,000. The third- and fourth-placed teams received ₹30,000 and ₹20,000 respectively. The tournament was organised by the Mokokchung District Volleyball Association (MDVA).
Nagaland Rural Development and SIRD Minister Metsübo Jamir, who graced the closing ceremony as chief patron. In his address, Jamir said the event was not merely about competition but also an occasion to remember the life and contributions of Master Imchaba, in whose memory the tournament is organised.
He recalled Imchaba’s contribution as an early Naga educator, Bible teacher, social leader and sports pioneer during a period of major transition in Naga society. Imchaba taught at the Impur Mission Training School.
Jamir highlighted Imchaba’s role in promoting volleyball and badminton among students when the sports were first introduced in the Naga Hills by American missionaries. He also noted that Dr. Talimeren Ao (Dr. T. Ao), the first Naga Olympian and first captain of independent India’s football team, was among Imchaba’s students.
Describing Imchaba as a pioneer who transformed challenges into opportunities, Jamir urged the younger generation to carry forward his spirit of perseverance, discipline and service.
He also called for greater unity among the people, saying sports should serve as a platform to overcome division and disparity and promote discipline, talent and togetherness among the youth.
“The trophy will go to one team, but the spirit of sportsmanship, youth development and unity in the community is the real prize,” Jamir said.
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