Morung Express News
Mokokchung | April 28
The 3rd Salangtem Youth Union (SYU) Open Futsal Tournament, held under the aegis of the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA), kicked off on Monday at the Mojabi Futsal Turf, Salangtem Ward, Mokokchung. Organized under the theme “Focus to Endure”, the tournament promises three days of competition, with 19 teams from across Mokokchung district, as well as Wokha and Dimapur, vying for top honors.
The inaugural programme was attended by Temsuchuba Jamir, Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil), Mokokchung, as Guest of Honour. In his address, Temsuchuba commended the Salangtem Youth Union for their consistent effort in organizing the tournament, attributing their success to their unity. He noted that events like these provide a much-needed platform for young people.
Reflecting on Mokokchung’s past achievements in sports and other fields, Temsuchuba pointed out that today’s generation should critically reflect on why the district has fallen behind others. He said that success would require letting go of negative mindsets and pride, and urged the youth to work harder, as earlier generations had done. He also reminded the gathering that while today’s youth have access to better facilities like futsal turfs, earlier generations did not enjoy such infrastructure. He called on players to appreciate these opportunities and make better use of them. Temsuchuba expressed hope that the tournament would not just promote sporting skills, but also help in building character, discipline, and unity among young people.
Short speeches were also delivered by N. Akok Longkumer, President of MDFA, and S. Bendang Longkumer, Chairman of Salangtem Ward Yimden, both congratulating SYU for its efforts in promoting the sport and engaging the youth positively.
The tournament, officially partnered by Nagaland Minerals & Mines, offers cash prizes: Rs 60,000 along with a trophy for the champions, Rs 40,000 for the runners-up, and Rs 10,000 for the third-place winners and individual awards worth Rs 10,000.
The tournament began with a strong performance by Chargers FC, who defeated Rifel’s FC with a convincing 7-2 scoreline.
Defending champions Ignite FC, who beat G-Sports Mokokchung in last year’s final, are also competing this year. The tournament will conclude on April 30.
