3rd Kohima District Grassroot C’ship 2026 concludes

Our Correspondent
Kohima | July 25

The Kohima District Football Association (KDFA) under the aegis of Nagaland Football Association (NFA) organised 3rd Kohima District Grassroot Championship 2026 at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima on July 25.

Altogether, 32 teams joined the tournament.

Gracing the opening ceremony, Roko Angami, OSD (Sports), Department of Youth Resources & Sports, Government of Nagaland, called for sustained investment in grassroots football, saying the future of the sport depends on nurturing young talent from the grassroots level. He said that grassroots football serves as the foundation of the game by instilling values such as teamwork, discipline, perseverance, sportsmanship and character.

Describing football as a universal language, he said the sport unites people irrespective of wealth, caste, religion or background, where commitment and dedication remain the true measures of success. Highlighting the government’s efforts to strengthen sports development, Roko said the Department of Youth Resources & Sports has been providing platforms for young athletes through initiatives including the Baby League, Grassroot Football Tournament, Zonal School Pre-Subroto Tournaments, Inter-KIC Tournament, Women’s Futsal League and the State-Level School Pre-Subroto Tournament.

He further stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio, the state has developed more than 30 futsal grounds along with several artificial turf grounds, while additional football infrastructure is currently under construction across Nagaland.

Encouraging the young footballers, Angami said infrastructure alone cannot produce champions and urged players to remain disciplined, exercise self-control on and off the field, work harder than others and practise consistently to achieve excellence. He also encouraged participants to respect their opponents, play with courage, enjoy the game and view the championship as an important milestone in their football journey.

Earlier, KDFA president M Mathew Yhome delivered welcome address, The inaugural programme was chaired by Ngurieno (Regina) Chasie, Women Coordinator of KDFA, while the invocation was offered by Khriezosielie Belho, Assistant Pastor, Khedi Baptist Kehou. A special number was presented by Jojo Gangmei.

Later, Kevineiü Sekhose, Councilor, Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) Ward No. 10 graced the culmination programme as the guest of honour and gave away prize to the winners. Medolenuo Loucü, Press Secretary, KDFA compered the programme while vote of thanks was proposed by Metekhrielie Mejura, Finance Secretary, KDFA.

Winners
Under -10 Category
Champion: G. Rio School
Runner up: KIC Kohima
Golden Glove: Isisappi Guing (KIC)
Golden Ball: Thejaphrezo Mere (G. Rio School)

Under -13 Category
Champion-:G. Rio School

Runner- up: Khelo India Centre Kohima
Golden Glove: Mhasizhalie Suokhrie (KIC Kohima)
Golden Ball: Manentoshi Aier (G. Rio School)

Under -15 Category
Champion: Young Star FC
Runner-up: Tsieyama
Golden Glove: Nourhevi Rhutso (Kohima Sports Club)
Golden Ball: Kekhriengulie Kuotsu (Young Star FC