Commentator Joel Richard Williams has been appointed as the head coach of the Tuensang District Football Association team for the upcoming Dr. T Ao Trophy.
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DIMAPUR — Joel Richard Williams has been appointed as the new head coach of the Tuensang District Football Association (TDFA) team, announced the TDFA on Monday evening through social media. This was also confirmed by Williams to Eastern Mirror.
Williams is a familiar voice in Nagaland football, known for his commentary at the Dr. T Ao Trophy. Last year, he hinted at a new role where he would be coaching a team in 2026.
Speaking to this newspaper, he stated that he was drawn to Tuensang because of the district's strong football identity. "Tuensang has always represented more than just a team — it represents pride, resilience, and a deep connection between football and the community. That kind of environment is something every coach looks for," he said.
Also read: Joel Richard Williams: The man behind Nagaland’s voice of football
He noted that the vision of the association convinced him. "From my conversations with the officials, I sensed a genuine desire to build something sustainable and progressive, not just to participate in tournaments but to create long-term impact. The ambition to grow, combined with the trust they placed in me, made this an opportunity I felt aligned with both professionally and personally," he said.
Regarding his new role as coach, while being popular for his commentary duties during the Dr. T Ao Trophy, he revealed that he will balance both roles. He said the scheduled break days between matches will allow him the time to organise his responsibilities without compromising his commitment to Tuensang.
"On match days, my full focus will always be on the team — preparation, performance, and recovery," he affirmed.
On rest days, he will continue his commentary work, which he views as complementary rather than conflicting. He noted that commentary keeps him connected to the wider football landscape, while coaching allows him to apply that understanding in a competitive environment.
He stated that the team comes first. As head coach, he is committed to prioritising their needs, planning, and leadership. He noted that while every new appointment brings new energy, his intention is clear.
"We are coming into this tournament to compete at the highest level and to challenge for the title. Tuensang is not here just to be part of the competition; we are here to test the very best and to push ourselves into the top tier of teams," he said.
When asked about the team he is looking forward to facing, he responded that while he has great respect for all sides, Mon, the defending champions, are the benchmark they are aiming to reach and push beyond.
"Those are the games that motivate me the most — not because of rivalry alone, but because real progress is measured by how you perform against the strongest opponents. Our goal is to meet those challenges head-on and prove that Tuensang is ready to compete for the crown," he said.
Regarding his coaching philosophy, Williams said it is based on discipline and organisation, but also on enjoyment and expression. He believes football should be structured and intelligent but never restrictive or boring.
"The game is meant to be exciting — for the players and for the supporters — and I want Tuensang to be a team people enjoy watching. I want my players to play with freedom, confidence, and creativity. I encourage them to take risks, to express themselves on the ball, and to enjoy the responsibility of making decisions on the pitch. While tactical discipline is important, I also believe that when players are trusted and allowed to enjoy the game, their best qualities naturally come out," he said.
His aim is to build a team that is organised and hard-working but also brave, energetic, and unpredictable.
In the short term, the objective is to build a united and competitive squad for the Dr. T Ao Trophy, where he wants players to feel prepared, confident, and proud to represent Tuensang. Performance, discipline, and consistency will be key targets.
"In the long term, my goal is to contribute to the development of a strong football culture within Tuensang. That includes creating pathways for young players, strengthening team structure, and establishing an identity that goes beyond a single season," he said.
He added that success should not be measured only by trophies but by growth, sustainability, and the standards left behind for future teams.
Williams asserted that if they can build a team that represents Tuensang with pride, character, and unity, then results will take care of themselves.