MLA Khashim launches Ukhrul's Basketball Association
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang
Ukhrul, December 23 2021:
Chingai MLA Khashim Vashum officially launched the newly-established Ukhrul District Basketball Association (UDBA) during a lowLkey function held at Meiphung Productions (MP) conference hall, Hamleikhong in Ukhrul town on Thursday.
Unfurling the UDBA flag, MLA Khashim also launched the shirt of the association in the presence of its president NS Franky and officials.
"Today is an important day for Ukhrul in its sporting history," he said extolling UDBA officials for taking the initiative to institute the association to promote Basketball discipline in the district.
He added that the beginning of every good thing is challenging and full of struggles.
"It's laudable that you have taken the first step.
You may be small today but you will definitely grow big.
Work hard and never give up making your best efforts," he exhorted the association's executives.
The MLA further appealed to the public to extend their support to sports and local athletes.
Speaking for himself, Khashim said that he doesn't have any sporting skills but he continues to be a sport lover and supporter.
"Likewise, you might not be a sportsman but you can still love and support sports," he said.
In his speech, UDBA presi dent Franky said that idea of establishing the association took shape in September this year.
"The rationale behind the formation of this new association is to provide a proper platform to local basketball enthusiasts.
There are many such players of this particular discipline in the district but they cannot prosper due to lack of opportunities," he explained.
He then informed that the objective of the association is to nurture skills and talents among the youth and to encourage them in participating in different tournaments and competitive events.
"Formation of this association will go a long way in promoting sports development in the district," Franky exuded.
Meanwhile, the association executive Isaiah Phachang said that the acute lack of sporting infrastructures including Basketball is a major hindrance to sports development in the district and urged the authorities concerned to look into the matter at the earliest.
The launching was attended by official representatives from Ukhrul District Sports Association (USDA), Ukhrul District Thangta Association, Ukhrul District Boxing Association, Hunphun Katamnao Long, ingtun Tangkhul Katamnao Long and other organisations.