Hiti Seb, an 18-year-old football prodigy from Nagaland, has signed a contract with Northeast United FC’s reserve team, marking a significant milestone in his young career. The Indian Super League club officially confirmed the news on June 3, following the conclusion of the final round of trials in Guwahati.
Seb’s journey in football began at the tender age of 11 when he made his senior-level debut for Vanguard FC during the 8th Eagles’ Trophy 2016 semi-final. His talent was further recognized when he was awarded the “Most Promising Player” at the Football Grassroots Camp organized by the Nagaland Football Coaches Association (NFCA) in 2017. This early recognition set the stage for Seb’s burgeoning career.
Determined to hone his skills and play at a higher level, Seb joined Sudeva Academy in Delhi at the age of 12. Despite facing challenges such as injuries and limited match minutes, he persevered and continued to make strides in his football career, including participating in the Kohima Football League 2019. His resilience and determination were evident as he navigated these hurdles, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the sport.
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Seb’s selection for the Northeast United FC reserve team came after a grueling month-long trial process involving over 3,000 participants from the Northeast region. He emerged as the sole player from Nagaland to secure a spot in the reserve team, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication.
The final trials in Guwahati were overseen by Suhel Nair, the new Head of Youth Development and Head Coach of the Under-17 team at Northeast United FC. Another player from Nagaland, Bokato Awomi, has been listed as a probable for the reserve team and will be called for another round of trials in July. This indicates the club’s commitment to scouting and nurturing talent from the region.
Northeast United FC expressed their excitement about the potential of the selected players and their commitment to providing them with the best training and development opportunities.
The club believes that with the continued support of the football community, they can make a significant impact on the future of the sport in the region. This forward-thinking approach underscores the club’s dedication to fostering young talent and building a robust football ecosystem.
Vanguard FC, Seb’s former club, also congratulated him on signing the professional contract, highlighting his achievements as the youngest player to represent the club and his participation in various tournaments.
Seb, a central midfielder, is the son of Konyi Seb and Dr. Shasinle Seb. His family’s support has undoubtedly played a crucial role in his journey, providing the foundation for his success.
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As Hiti Seb embarks on this new chapter in his football career, his success serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers in Nagaland and the Northeast region.
His dedication, skill, and perseverance have earned him this opportunity, and he now has the chance to showcase his talent at a higher level with Northeast United FC’s reserve team, with the potential to break into the senior team in the coming years.
This milestone is not just a personal victory for Seb but a beacon of hope for many young athletes dreaming of making it big in the world of football.
