Photo Courtesy: nenow
Imphal: The Kuki Students Organisation Sadar Hills honored four young athletes from Kangpokpi on Saturday. These students earned global praise for football and badminton prowess. The ceremony took place at El-Shaddai in Kanggui. Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen sponsored the event.
Footballers Thangsanglen Kipgen, Lalvanghao Haokip, and Seiminsang Khongsai play for Minerva Academy FC. They clinched Under-12 titles at both the Gothia Cup and Helsinki Cup in 2026. Thangsanglen netted 35 goals to claim the Most Valuable Player award. Lalvanghao added 14 goals. Seiminsang contributed 11 goals to the winning effort.
Badminton star Kimkim Khongsai earned honors for winning the All India Under-15 National Badminton Championship in Hyderabad. Each athlete received Rs 50,000 and a Certificate of Appreciation. The gathering featured a prayer from Rev. Thangsat Kipgen and music by Ng. Phalnu Kipgen.
Kipgen highlighted the strength required to succeed while living in a district scarred by ethnic conflict since May 2023. She told the crowd: "Young athletes are symbols of hope, resilience and national pride." She added that sports serve as a powerful force for nation-building.
The event coordinator, K. Shongreng, managed the program. Leaders from KISH, SAHILCA, KWU, and KWWO attended. The day wrapped up with a fellowship meal for all guests.
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