An immense loss: Football fraternity mourns passing of coach
An immense loss: Football fraternity mourns passing of coach William Koso
The football community of Nagaland is in mourning following the passing of N William Koso, a renowned football coach and educator, who lost his life in a traffic accident on Tuesday
DIMAPUR — The football community of Nagaland
is in mourning following the passing of N William Koso, a renowned football
coach and educator, who lost his life in a traffic accident on Tuesday.
A pioneering figure in Nagaland football, Koso was
Nagaland’s first AFC A-Licensed Coach and mentor, instrumental in shaping the
state’s football ecosystem. His contributions to grassroots development, coach
education, and professional football were widely recognised.
The Nagaland Super League (NSL) expressed shock and grief
over his sudden demise, calling it an “immense loss to the football community.”
As the NSL Technical Head, Koso played a pivotal role in shaping the league,
bringing expertise, dedication, and passion to the sport, it said.
“His invaluable contributions to football in Nagaland have
left a lasting impact, and his absence will be profoundly felt,” the NSL
stated. Koso’s influence extended beyond the league as a coach educator for the
All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Asian Football Confederation
(AFC), as well as the Technical Advisor of the Nagaland Football Coaches
Association (NFCA).
Abu Metha, Secretary General of the Nagaland Olympic
Association (NOA) described Koso as a key figure in the sporting fraternity of
Nagaland and a pillar in Indian football.
“William was more than a colleague—he was family... He was
the State’s only AFC A-Licensed Coach and a professionally trained Educator.
His journey began at the grassroots and through sheer dedication and
perseverance, he rose to coach some of the top clubs in the region,” Metha
said.
Stating that Koso was “crucial cog in the footballing
wheel—an integral part of both the State and All India Football Federation’s
vision for the game,” Metha added that the depth of experience and professional
knowledge he had accumulated made Koso an invaluable asset to Nagaland and
Indian football.
“Over the years, William mentored and nurtured hundreds of
players and coaches, many of whom owe their careers to the solid foundations he
helped lay. His loss is one that will be felt for years to come,” he added.
Mourning his demise, the Football Licensed Coaches of Kohima
District (FLCoKD) hailed Koso as a visionary, stating that his pioneering work in
coaching and talent development transformed the football landscape of Nagaland.
“He was not just a guiding force but a steadfast colleague
who shared our passion for developing the sport. His commitment to
professionalism, grassroots development, and coach education will remain a
lasting legacy,” it said.
Various football organisations across Nagaland also paid
tribute to Koso’s contributions.
The Shamator District Football Association (SDFA) called him
a trailblazer and a great leader in Nagaland football. “He was one of the first
amongst the young Nagas who was very passionate and keen to change the face of
football future in our state,” it said, mourning the huge vacuum left by his
passing.
The Peren District Football Association (PDFA) described him
as a mentor and an inspiration not just for players but also his colleagues.
“His commitment to nurturing talent and instilling the
values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance will be remembered for years
to come,” it said.
