6th Inter-Ward Football Tournament kicks off in Mokokchung

Vesupra Kezo with members of organising teams and players before the kick off on Tuesday. (EM Images)

• MOKOKCHUNG — The 6th edition of the Inter-Ward Football Tournament, organised by the Marepkong Youth Association, commenced on Tuesday at the Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung, under the theme “Rise as One.”
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• The inaugural ceremony was attended by Vesupra Kezo, Senior Superintendent of Police, Mokokchung, as the guest of honour, marking the start of the 13-ward competition aimed at promoting grassroots football in the district.
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• In his address, Kezo paid tribute to Dr. T Ao, Nagaland’s football icon and India’s first Olympic football captain, recognising his legacy and impact on the sport. He encouraged young players to emulate Dr. Ao’s dedication and discipline, stating that he was a “powerhouse of talents.”
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• Highlighting the football talent emerging from Mokokchung, Kezo noted that 12 players from the district are currently competing in the Nagaland Super League (NSL). He also mentioned that the Indian Junior National Championship (Under-19) in Gujarat has been named in Dr. Ao’s honour, further cementing his contribution to Indian football.
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• Emphasising the importance of structured football development, Kezo proposed the organisation of more tournaments and the naming of stadiums after Dr. Ao to inspire future generations. He also stressed the need for grassroots training academies to nurture young talent.
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• “Football transcends gender and regional boundaries, fostering bonds and positivity,” he said, urging players to uphold sportsmanship.
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• To encourage sportsmanship and performance, Kezo pledged to sponsor three individual awards: Best Discipline Team, Best Coach, and Emerging Player of the Tournament. These awards will complement the existing prizes, which include: Best Goalkeeper, Best Defender, Highest Goal Scorer, and Player of the Tournament.
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• The champions of the tournament will receive INR 50,000, a trophy, and certificates, while the runners-up will be awarded INR 30,000.
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• A moment of silence was observed in memory of N William Koso, a renowned football coach in Nagaland, who tragically passed away in an accident on Tuesday. The attendees paid tribute to his contributions to football development in the state.
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• Meanwhile, the tournament kicked off with an inaugural match between Artang Ward and Yimyu Ward, where Artang Ward secured a 1-0 victory. Senior player Chuba Imchen scored the winning goal with a header in the 20th minute.
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• The ceremonial oath was led by Takalong Pongen, President of the Marepkong Youth Association, while a welcome address was delivered by Talinungsang Longkumer, an executive member of the association. S Imtichizüng Ozüküm, Chairman of Tongdentsüyong Ward, also shared words of encouragement.
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• The event saw participation from town councillors, Ao Students’ Conference, ward councils and football enthusiasts. The tournament will continue in the coming days as teams from 13 wards compete for the championship.
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• Players of Yimyu (Blue) and Artang (White) in action during the 6th Inter-Ward Football Tournament at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung on Tuesday. (EM Images)