Tuensang emerged victorious with a stunning 10-0 win against Kiphire in the opening match of the 23rd Dr. T. Ao Inter-District Championships, held at the Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground. This annual tournament, a celebration of Nagaland’s football talent, kicked off with great enthusiasm and promise.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio inaugurates event, shares vision for sports development
Nagaland’s Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, officially inaugurated the championship, expressing admiration for the organising committee and the Tuensang District Football Federation for their hard work. He paid homage to Dr. T. Ao, the tournament’s namesake and a revered figure in Indian football history, who led the national team at the 1948 London Olympics and was a standout player at Mohun Bagan Club.
Rio urged young athletes to follow in Dr. Ao’s footsteps and pledged the government’s commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure across all districts. He praised the Department of Youth Resources & Sports for supporting youth ambitions in sports and music, and declared 2024 as the Year of Youth Empowerment. Highlighting Nagaland’s sporting potential, he mentioned local athlete Hokato Hotozhe Sema’s recent bronze medal achievement at the 2024 Paralympics.
Upgrades planned for Loyem Memorial Ground, support for female athletes
The Loyem Memorial Ground is set to undergo significant upgrades, including new galleries, a security wall, and improved electrification. Rio assured ongoing support for female athletes and emphasised the importance of facilities that allow night-time training to enhance player skills.
Also Read: Lamare Bogarde’s poor showing vs Young Boys raises doubts over his starting role
Nagaland Football Association President calls for national and international standard facilities
K. Neibou Sekhose, President of the Nagaland Football Association, hailed this event as historic due to its location in an Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) area for the first time. He urged the government to build sports fields meeting national standards in every district and an international-standard football ground capable of hosting global matches.
Sekhose advised players that success in football is built on ability, personality, skills, and efficiency. He encouraged them to face challenges with discipline and accept both victory and defeat with grace.
Also Read: Tuensang prepares for Dr. T Ao Trophy: public urged to clear roads
Dignitaries attend opening ceremony
The opening ceremony was graced by several distinguished dignitaries including C. L John, Minister of Forest, Environment & Climate Change; P. Bashangmongba Chang, Minister of Housing and Mechanical Engineering; Mhathung Yanthan, Adviser of Agriculture; and MLAs Benei Lamthui and Imtichoba. MLA Lima Onen, Convener of the Planning Committee, delivered a warm welcome address while MLA A. Keoshu Yimkhiung, Adviser for Youth Resources and Sports, gave a brief speech.
