Phek announces provisional squad for Dr T Ao Trophy

Training camp from Sep 15 to select final squad

Morung Express News
Phek | September 1

Phek district’s football talents are gearing up to make a formidable mark at this year’s Dr. T. Ao Trophy, scheduled to take place in Mokokchung from October 12 to 31.

The Football Association of Phek District (FAPD) has officially declared its 32-member provisional squad ahead of the highly anticipated 25th edition of the Dr. T. Ao Trophy 2026.

According to the FAPD, the provisional squad was meticulously narrowed down following comprehensive selection trials held between August 4 and August 7, 2026.

The trials were conducted across four key venues namely Pfütsero, Phek, Chozuba and Chümoukedima, and saw aturnout of 188 aspiring footballers. The FAPD Selection Committee was convened by AFC B licensed coach Khwetelhi Thopi (AFC B License holder) alongside AIFF D licensed coaches Rhitsho Mero, Punürh Nienu Mero, Uhiweto Koza Mero, and Veyi Lohe Mero as members. The committee finalized the current roster consisting of 5 goalkeepers, 11 defenders, 8 midfielders, and 8 forwards.

To finalize the competing team, the provisional squad will undergo an intensive training camp in Chizami from September 15 to October 10, 2026. During this period, the final squad for the tournament will be officially selected. “For the 25th edition, we have shortlisted mostly young and fresh players. We will have an intensive training camp of about 25 days, and the final squad will be selected after observing the players during the initial phase of the camp,” FAPD president Colo Mero told The Morung Express on Tuesday.

The training camp receives significant backing, with sponsorship of Rs 1.5 lakh by Minister KG Kenye. The camp will be hosted by the Chizami Sports Association and the Chizami Youth Society.

The team is also set to be guided by an experienced panel of officials, led by Head Coach Vesupra Kezo (AFC C Licence) and Manager Mekhalo Lohe (AIFF D License). Rhitsho Mero will serve as the Assistant Coach, while Kuthozo Vero (AIFF D License) will take on the dual role of Assistant Manager-cum-Chaplain. “The FAPD is particularly grateful to our five licensed coaches under the leadership of Khwetelhi Thopi, AFC B License Coach, who took the initiative and conducted the selection trials at their own expense. They will also be actively involved in preparing the team during the training camp. Their commitment to football development in the district is deeply appreciated,” the FAPD president added.

Players reporting to the training camp have been instructed to bring their own light bedding, necessary sports kits, and a Bible and Hymn Book. “Over the years, the FAPD team has become known for discipline, hard work and uniting our community. We give considerable importance to Christian fellowship during our training camps and tournaments because we believe that spiritual discipline helps our players develop discipline, character, unity and respect both on and off the field,” Mero said.

Additionally, they have also been informed to bring essential documentation including photocopies of birth certificate, Aadhaar Card, and passport-size photographs required for Central Registration System (CRS) processing.

As the present FAPD team’s tenure nears its end, they look forward to do so on a winning note. “The FAPD was established in 2019, and in our very first year, we became champions of the Dr. T. Ao Trophy, Phek district’s first-ever title in this prestigious tournament. That remains a very special achievement for us,” Mero stated.

“As we are preparing to hand over the responsibility to a new team of able leaders who love football and are committed to developing professional football in Phek District and beyond, it would be very special and exciting to end our tenure by bringing this coveted trophy home once again,” he added.

“We know that the Dr. T. Ao Trophy has become highly competitive, and we respect every team. Our focus will be on preparing well, remaining disciplined and giving our very best in every match,” Mero concluded.