IFL trophy arrived in Nagaland as Nagaland United prepares for its debut, with Rio highlighting football’s potential for youth
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DIMAPUR — The Indian Football League (IFL) trophy arrived in Nagaland on Thursday as Nagaland United Sports Club (NUSC) prepares to make its debut in the national competition, marking a milestone for football in the state.
The IFL Trophy Tour and unveiling of NUSC’s official jersey were held at Niathu Resort in the presence of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and representatives of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the IFL.
Addressing the gathering, Rio described NUSC’s participation in the league as a dream come true for Nagaland and thanked the AIFF for its support in enabling the club to compete at the national level. He said the development marked an important step for football in the state.
Rio recalled Nagaland’s football heritage, particularly the legacy of Dr. T Ao, who captained independent India’s football team at the 1948 London Olympics. He noted that the AIFF had recognised Ao’s contribution by naming its women’s football trophy after the legendary footballer.
The chief minister highlighted that the state had continued to promote football through the Dr. T Ao Trophy and other grassroots initiatives. He also recalled that after he assumed office in 2003, the government declared 2004 the Year of the Youth Empowerment, with an emphasis on youth development through sports.
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The inter-district Dr. T Ao Trophy was among the initiatives introduced to strengthen the sporting ecosystem, he said, while also referring to efforts to promote women’s football.
Rio said NUSC was established to provide talented young people from across Nagaland with a route from village and district-level competitions to the state and national stages, with the possibility of eventually competing internationally. He acknowledged the efforts of the club’s founders, members and supporters in securing AIFF affiliation and the opportunity to compete in the league, a process he said could otherwise have taken years.
Urging the club’s management, coaches, officials and players to demonstrate commitment, sincerity and professionalism, Rio called on the team to maintain discipline, respect opponents and uphold sportsmanship. He said sports offered young people not only recognition but also livelihood opportunities.
Acknowledging that several players in the league would come from outside Nagaland, Rio thanked those representing NUSC and encouraged them to give their best. He appealed to football enthusiasts and young people across the state to support the club and welcome visiting teams, saying a strong response from the public would help build enthusiasm for the game.
Rio said Nagaland’s football heritage, combined with its strengths in music, culture and other sports, could enhance the state’s recognition beyond its borders. He expressed hope that NUSC would develop its facilities, create opportunities for aspiring players and inspire younger generations to pursue their football ambitions.
NUSC is scheduled to play 10 home matches at Chümoukedima Football Stadium and 10 away matches in the league.