UKHRUL: Four young athletes from Kangpokpi district were felicitated by the Kuki Students’ Organisation Sadar Hills (KSO-SH) on Saturday for their performances in football and badminton at the national and international levels.
The programme, sponsored by deputy chief minister Nemcha Kipgen, was held at El-Shaddai, Kanggui.
The footballers honoured were Thangsanglen Kipgen, Lalvanghao Haokip and Seiminsang Khongsai, all members of Minerva Academy FC, which won the Under-12 title at the Gothia Cup and Helsinki Cup 2026.
Thangsanglen finished the twin tournaments as the Most Valuable Player (MVP) after scoring 35 goals, while Lalvanghao scored 14 goals and Seiminsang added 11 during the title-winning campaign.
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Badminton player Kimkim Khongsai was also felicitated after winning the All India Under-15 National Badminton Championship, held in Hyderabad earlier this year.
Each of the four sportspersons received a cash award of Rs. 50,000 and a Certificate of Appreciation from the organisers.
The programme opened with a prayer led by rev. Thangsat Kipgen, convener of the Committee on Tribal Unity Prayer Cell. K. Shongreng, general secretary of KSO-SH, coordinated the event, while gospel singer Ng. Phalnu Kipgen presented a special musical performance.
The four athletes later shared their experiences, speaking about their training, competitions and the support they received from their families and coaches.
Representatives of KISH, SAHILCA, KWU and KWWO, along with parents of the athletes, also addressed the gathering.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by K. Shongreng, followed by the benediction and a fellowship meal.
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