The 12th edition of the G. Rio Memorial Volleyball Trophy, Kohima Open Tournament, was inaugurated on 17 November 2025 at the Kohima Local Ground (Khuochiezie). Organized by the Kohima District Volleyball Association (KDVA), the four-day tournament will continue until 20 November, featuring men’s and women’s teams from Nagaland, Assam, and Manipur.

Zhaleo Rio, IAS (Retd.), MLA and Advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Government of Nagaland, attended as the special guest. Speaking at the event, he paid tribute to his late father, Guolhoulie Rio, recalling his service in the Naga Regiment, the Naga Home Guards, and his contributions to community development as Tuophema Basa Village Council Chairman. He highlighted the importance of discipline, focus, and hard work for athletes aspiring to achieve state, national, and international recognition.

Visasielie Suhu, President of KDVA, announced that the tournament would now be officially named the G. Rio Memorial Trophy. This year’s edition sees participation from 13 men’s teams and 12 women’s teams, reflecting growing interest in volleyball, particularly among women players. Suhu noted that the trophy was previously organized by the Northern Angami Students’ Union and revived by KDVA with the support of the Rio family.

The opening ceremony included prayers by Pastor Visatuo Yhoshü of UBC, a special song by Brooke Shitiri, and the official declaration of the tournament by Zhaleo Rio. The oath-taking for participating teams was led by Vizobeilie Punyü, Technical Committee Convenor.

Prize Structure:

Men’s Category: Champions – ₹1,50,000; Runners-up – ₹80,000; Semi-finalists – ₹25,000 each

Women’s Category: Champions – ₹80,000; Runners-up – ₹50,000; Semi-finalists – ₹15,000 each

Individual Awards (Men & Women): Best Spiker – ₹5,000; Best Setter – ₹5,000

The tournament aims to promote volleyball in Nagaland while honoring the legacy of Guolhoulie Rio.