Historic playground at Impur Mission Centre renamed Dr T Ao Ground to honour India’s legendary barefoot football captain.
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IMPUR — The historic playground at Impur Mission Centre, where India's pioneering footballer Dr. T Ao developed his talents, was officially renamed the Dr. T Ao Ground on February 21.
Held on the theme "Where legends begin", the event gathered church officials, government representatives, football leaders, and community members to celebrate the life of the man remembered as India's "barefoot captain", who led the national team during the 1948 London Olympics.
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Rev. Temsü Jamir, Executive Secretary of the Ao Baptist Arogo Mungdang (ABAM), described the moment as momentous, honouring "one of the finest sons of our land". He highlighted how Dr. T Ao's path from modest origins continues to motivate young people.
He pointed out that the Clark Memorial Higher Secondary School played a key role in instilling discipline and leadership in the young Talimeren Ao. He stressed that the renaming honours a life defined by humility and service, urging today's youth to chase greatness with steadfast effort.
K Neibou Sekhose, President of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), called the renaming a landmark acknowledgement of Dr. T Ao as the inaugural captain of India's Olympic football squad. He recalled past honours such as the Dr. T Ao Trophy and the renaming of the Junior Girls National Football Championship in his memory.
Anthony Ngullie, Secretary of Youth Resources and Sports and President of the Nagaland Veteran Football Association, hailed Dr. T Ao as a true national icon. He underscored the captain's feat of leading the team barefoot soon after India's Independence, showcasing extraordinary character.
Imtipokyim, General Secretary of Ao Senden, viewed the occasion as a milestone in Mokokchung's football heritage. Akok Longkumer, President of the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA), noted that the move would boost local football growth at the grassroots level.
The formal declaration and unveiling of the Dr. T Ao Ground was performed by Sekhose, followed by a dedicatory prayer led by Rev. Jamir. The programme included a presentation tracing Dr. T Ao’s early life and an exhibition match between NFA XI and ABAM XI.