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Imphal, March 22: : The 8th edition of the Thingujam (O) Nganbi Devi Memorial Football Tournament, organised by the Social Workers’ Congress (SWC), commenced today at the SWC Ground, Khongman, under the theme “Football Development and Grooming Leadership.” The tournament is sponsored by the Thingujam (O) Nganbi Devi Memorial Trust.
Speaking at the inaugural function, Thingujam Oxford, an intending candidate of the 5-Thongju Assembly Constituency, underscored the importance of discipline for both players and students, while also stressing the need for maintaining good health. He noted that sports play a vital role in society and described Manipur as a powerhouse in the field of sports.
He praised the participation of 14 teams in the tournament and expressed confidence that such events would inspire young boys and girls to actively engage in sports, thereby sustaining the state’s reputation as a leading sporting hub in the country.
Highlighting challenges faced by athletes amid the ongoing conflict, he pointed out that many players are unable to travel by road, while financial constraints prevent some families from affording air travel, depriving young talents of opportunities. He also emphasised the importance of preserving playgrounds for future generations.
Thingujam Oxford further informed that the memorial trust was established in honour of his grandmother, late Thingujam Ongbi Nganbi Devi, who passed away on September 19, 2013. She is remembered for her simple and community-oriented life. She was the wife of late Th. Nabakishwore Singh, popularly known as Oja Tomba, a respected local teacher.
He added that since its inception, the family has been sponsoring football tournaments across four Assembly Constituencies—Kshetrigao, Andro, Thongju, and Wangkhem—in Imphal East district. Besides organising tournaments, the Trust also extends assistance to senior citizens during Yaoshang and honours meritorious Class 10 and 12 students during the SWC Foundation Day.
The primary objective of the tournament is to nurture young football talent from the grassroots level. The region has produced several national-level players in football and other disciplines, he said.
The opening match of the first league round saw SWC-A take on MNC Mongkhanglambi. The tournament is expected to witness participation from multiple teams, aiming to promote football and sportsmanship among the youth.
Rinku Khumukcham, Editor of Imphal Times, Thingujam Oxford, an intending candidate of the 5-Thongju Assembly Constituency, M. Kulajit, former international hockey player, and A. Birendra, President of SWC Khongman attended the inaugural function dignitaries.
