Bishop Abraham Memorial Tournament unites Nagaland’s Catholic youth in sportsmanship and faith

Nagaland, October 4, 2025: The 5th Bishop Abraham Memorial Tournament, organised by the Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement (NCYM) and hosted by the Southern Angami Catholic Union (SACU), concluded at St. Joseph’s (Autonomous) College, Jakhama, bringing together Catholic youth from across Nagaland in a spirited celebration of sportsmanship, faith, and community. The three-day tournament featured volleyball and tug-of-war competitions for men and women, embodying teamwork, dedication, and unity among the participants.

Guest of Honour Col. Satya Narain of the 44 Mountain Brigade emphasised that sports should be seen as a platform for growth, learning, and enjoyment rather than a mere pursuit of trophies. Recalling his own passion for volleyball and a career cut short by injury, he urged the young athletes to value participation and perseverance above winning.

Special Guest Dr. John Seyiekhrietuo, State Nodal Officer of AYUSH and President of the Angami Catholic Union (ACU), called on young people to channel their energy into entrepreneurship amid rising unemployment in the state. He described sports as a vital means to cultivate resilience, teamwork, and mental strength—qualities essential for success beyond the field.

Auxiliary Bishop Jose Puthenveetil of Faridabad expressed delight in seeing Catholic youth from “every nook and corner” of Nagaland come together through the tournament, describing it as a testament to faith-driven camaraderie and shared values.

In the men’s volleyball event, St. John Evangelist Church, Khonoma emerged victorious, followed by St. Paul Church, Phesama. St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Lazami clinched the women’s championship, defeating St. Francis de Sales, Tening. The tug-of-war competition saw St. Xavier Parish, Kidima claim first place, while St. John the Evangelist Parish, Khonoma and St. Joseph’s Parish, Tseminyu secured second and third positions respectively.

Outstanding performers were also honoured for their excellence. Among women, St. Joseph’s Centre, Songlhuh received Best Discipline; Mhiesimenuo Margaret of St. John the Evangelist, Khonoma was named Best Player; Niuli Helena of St. Francis of Assisi, Lazami won Best Spiker; and Livitoli Agnes from the same parish earned Best Setter. In the men’s category, Christ the King Centre, Phuvkiu won Best Discipline; Mhiesilieto Edmund of Khonoma was named Best Player; Kekhrieselie Kevin of Phesama was awarded Best Spiker; and Mezhüse Martin of Khonoma received Best Setter.

The event began with a prayer song led by NCYM executives and a welcome address by Sr. Mariyam Chothe, Lady Animator of NCYM, followed by a musical performance by Helena Swu. The closing ceremony featured the lowering of the NCYM flag and a vote of thanks by NCYM General Secretary Veronica Nriame. Fr. Peter Solo, Dean of Science at St. Joseph’s College (A), offered the closing prayer, while Paul Magh and Neikheno Irine moderated the programme, rounding off the tournament with gratitude and fellowship.

By Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement

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