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DIMAPUR — The 23rd edition of the inter-district football tournament, the Dr. T Ao Trophy, organised by the Nagaland Football Association (NFA) and hosted by the Tuensang District Football Association (TDFA) at Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground, Tuensang, kicked off on Tuesday.
The tournament was inaugurated by Neiphiu Rio, Chief Minister of Nagaland, as the principal guest, with S Keoshu Yimkhuing, MLA and Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, attending as the special guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Rio expressed how Dr. T Ao, a legendary figure and captain of the Indian football team at the 1948 London Olympics, as well as a sought-after player by European football clubs, greatly inspired the people of Nagaland.
Rio urged the youth to carry on Dr. T Ao's legacy in the field of sports and assured that the government is committed to providing better infrastructure in all districts.
The chief minister also lauded the Department of Youth Resources and Sports for pursuing the vision and dreams of the youth in sports and music. He stated that the government is committed to promoting sports and music in the state, with 2024 declared the “Year of Youth Empowerment”.
Noting the success of Hokato Hotozhe Sema, who won a bronze medal at the 2024 Paralympics, and the achievements of Naga sportspersons at various national-level competitions, Rio encouraged the youth to excel with discipline and dedication.
The chief minister also assured to prioritise the construction of additional galleries, a security wall, and electrification at Loyem Memorial Ground. This includes setting up floodlights powered by a generator to allow players to play at night.
He also announced the Nagaland Football League, initially assisted by the government of Nagaland, and emphasised the importance of women's participation in football.
The welcome address was delivered by Lima Onen, MLA and convenor of the Planning Committee.
In the presidential address, K Neibou Sekhose, president of the NFA, extended his gratitude to the CM for his role in the development of sports, particularly football. He emphasised that in sports, "reward is based on merit" and urged players to "work hard with commitment".
He described the day as momentous, marking the celebration of a life that has inspired countless individuals. He noted that Dr. Ao was synonymous with excellence, embodying perseverance, sportsmanship, and unity. He added that the trophy is a testament to the power of sports to bring people together and inspire future generations.
During the inaugural programme, Langasomba, music director of Tuensang Town Baptist Lashong, performed the theme of the tournament, “Together We Can Soar,” while BYE TTBL presented a cardio act.
Rio also inaugurated the newly constructed rostrum at Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground.
Following the kickoff, the first match of the tournament was played between Tuensang and Kiphire. The home team secured a decisive victory with a score of 10-0, as Kiphire failed to score.