Mokokchung prepares to host 25th Dr. T Ao Trophy in 2026

MOKOKCHUNG — The Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) held a ceremonial flag blessing and handover of the Nagaland Football Association flag for the silver jubilee edition of the Dr. T Ao Trophy 2026, to be hosted in Mokokchung on Saturday.

The ceremony was held at its office in the District Youth Hostel, Mokokchung, to mark the preparations for next year’s silver jubilee celebration of the prestigious tournament, as well as to honour Sentilong for receiving the Best Midfielder award in the recently concluded 24th edition of the trophy.

N. Akok Longkumer, president of MDFA, received the Nagaland Football Association (NFA) flag and was blessed by Rev. Ngangen Longkumer of Alempang Baptist Church.

Imkongsunep, former general secretary of MDFA, congratulated the team and Sentilong, urging the association to reclaim Mokokchung’s legacy as the “Football Capital of Nagaland”. He acknowledged the challenges of hosting the silver jubilee edition but stressed that unity and collective effort would ensure success.

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He stated that management would be challenging, but with teamwork, the event could become a milestone. He emphasised the need for strengthened team management, technical expertise, and strategic planning to elevate Mokokchung’s football stature.

Addressing financial hurdles, Imkongsunep proposed a “one player–one guardian mentorship model”, in which individuals would sponsor players’ expenses, thereby fostering community support.

He also called for timely upgrades to the infrastructure of Rempukong Ground, including its gallery, to meet tournament standards. In addition, he suggested introducing a new trophy to commemorate the silver jubilee. He noted that with collective responsibility, Mokokchung could host an unforgettable tournament, encouraging MDFA to leverage local talent and expertise.