Rev Ngangnen Longkumer pronounces the ceremonial flag blessing for the forthcoming Dr T Ao Trophy 2026 at the MDFA Office, Mokokchung on August 16. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Mokokchung | August 16
The Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) on Saturday held a ceremonial flag blessing as part of its preparations to host the 25th Dr T Ao Trophy in 2026. The ceremony, held at the MDFA Office, District Youth Hostel, was led by Rev Ngangnen Longkumer, Pastor of Alempang Baptist Church.
On the occasion, the MDFA also felicitated Sentilong, recipient of the Best Midfielder Award at the 2025 edition of the tournament, and presented him with the trophy and cash prize from the Nagaland Football Association.
Imkongsunep, former General Secretary of the MDFA, in his exhortation lauded the district team for reaching the semi-finals last year and congratulated Sentilong for bringing laurels to the district and the Ao community. He said hosting the 25th Silver Jubilee edition is both a privilege and a responsibility for Mokokchung, which had earlier hosted the 22nd edition in 2022.
“Though it will not be easy, it is not something new for us. With unity, we can achieve it,” he said, adding that while Mokokchung was once regarded as the football capital of Nagaland, the district must continue to build on recent positive developments with humility and strategy.
Highlighting financial constraints as a recurring challenge, he suggested that each of the 18 players be individually mentored and supported by guardians for the Silver Jubilee edition. He further proposed entrusting a capable elected representative as chairman of the organising committee and redesigning the trophy to commemorate the jubilee year.
It may be noted that the privilege of hosting the Silver Jubilee edition was granted to MDFA despite proposals from other districts, in recognition of Dr T Ao being from Mokokchung and to keep his legacy alive.
