SENAPATI, April 11: The hills of Manipur’s Senapati district came alive with enthusiasm, emotion, and sportsmanship as the first edition of the Late Sepoy K Ashuli, VrC Open Volleyball Tournament 2025 concluded today at the Mini Stadium, Senapati, marking the end of a five-day sporting celebration deeply rooted in honour and remembrance.
Organized jointly by the Assam Rifles and the Senapati District Olympic Association Manipur, the tournament paid a glowing tribute to Sepoy K Ashuli, a local hero and Vir Chakra awardee who made the ultimate sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil War. His memory was immortalized not only through the spirited matches but also with the unveiling of his statue by his son, A. Hriiyio and Colonel Sandeep Sharma, Commandant of 16 Assam Rifles, Maram Battalion.
Addressing the gathering, Colonel Sandeep Sharma praised the enthusiastic participation of all teams and paid a heartfelt tribute to the fallen soldier.
The tournament witnessed participation from 10 men’s and 8 women’s teams drawn from across districts including Senapati, Churachandpur, Kamjong, and Kangpokpi—showcasing unity through sport. In the men’s final, Senapati Sporting Club clinched a convincing 3-0 win over Buallian Sporting Club (Churachandpur). The women’s final was equally intense, as Hovia Memorial Team (Churachandpur) defeated Senapati Sporting Club 3-1 in a competitive showdown.
The event concluded with a cultural performance by the talented Liihva Kyapaomai, adding a vibrant local touch to the finale.
