Intensive coaching on boxing begins in Ukhrul
Former Boxer ZV Jollyson In Ukhrul After 3 Decades
Source: Hueiyen News Service / R Lester Makang

Ukhrul, September 02 2015: Landing on his home town after almost three decades, internationally acclaimed boxer ZV Jollyson was given a rousing reception during a function held TNL Hall on Tuesday evening.

On Wednesay, an intensive boxing training programme kicked off in Ukhrul under Jollyson's guidance.

The food and lodging were provided by Assam Rilfes and Kickboxing Association (KBA), Ukhrul has expressed gratitude for the same.

For the first time in 29 years, Jollyson who had been playing both in the national and international arena since 1986 � is currently in Ukhrul Town on a mission to train a wealth of the district's potential young talents for 45 days.

Caption

Preceding the intensive coaching which began on Wednesday, the Kickboxing Association (KBA), Ukhrul District organized the felicitation function on Tuesday which was hosted by Tangkhul Naga Long to felicitate and accord warm welcome to the rarely seen world boxer in recognition of his myriad achievements in boxing.

"Our brother Jollyson has truly done us all proud by representing not just Ukhrul District but also our Nation in the international arena," lauded TNL President V Weapon Zimik in his welcome address. Recalling the childhood days of Jollyson who hailed from the same Sararakhong village as Zimik himself, he testified that Jollyson was energetic as a small boy.

"The success he has achieved today against every possible odd was due to his grit and perseverance", Zimik said.

Meanwhile, interacting with media persons on the sideline of the function, Jollyson who currently holds the Coach in-charge of SAI, NE Region, Nagaland, said that he wished to convey to the district youngsters that learning facilities are very good at SAI and there is ample sports quota for the tribals.

Jollyson, who began to ride the waves of international fame with first break in Pre-Olympic game in 1989, informed that he started a footballer and switched to boxing appearing for a sub-junior national level competition for the first time even in 1986.Ever since, there was no looking back for him until he retired in 2001 after serving as India Team Captain for 5 years.

"I have played at different levels both nationally and internationally and once in a while I had been to Imphal but this is my first visit to Ukhrul since 1986, he said.

Welcoming the boxer's initiative as a special opportunity for local players, Ukhrul ADC Chairman Dr Yaronso Ngalung has assured to extend possible assistance to the Kickboxing Association (KBA), Ukhrul to look into the needs of the young trainees so that they can pursue the sport.

In his speech, Ukhrul SOP Ningsem vashum lauded both Jollyson and KBA Ukhrul for bringing the opportunity to the youngsters of the districts.

Urging the participants and trainees to pursue sporting careers beyond the village playground, Vashum said that they should concentrate on learning the skills while aiming for higher levels.

Ukhrul SDO Worshang Hungyo has asserted that there is no dearth of sportspersons in the district but most of them fail to measure up because of lack of coaching and proper guidance.

He called upon the young trainees to inculcate a sense of determination and maintain discipline to achieve success in sporting career.

The function was attended by Tangkhul Frontal Organisations, school students and public of the district.