Rokovikho Chale and others with winners of 2nd Grassroots Open Football Tournament in Kohima on June 29.
Our Correspondent
Kohima | June 29
The 2nd Grassroots Open Football Tournament 2024 concluded today at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima.
Rokovikho Chale, President, Angami Sports Association (ASA), graced the closing ceremony as the guest of honour.
Addressing the young athletes, Chale expressed confidence in the future of Naga football, highlighting that the efforts of the current leadership and visionaries would soon make a significant impact on Naga football history. Chale urged the youth to adopt games and sports as a part of their lives. He advised those who pursue sports as a hobby to play skillfully and enjoy the game, ensuring that others also enjoy watching their skills. For those considering a professional career in sports, Chale stressed the need for extraordinary effort and preparation. He encouraged young athletes to be well-equipped and punctual.
Chale assured that the ASA is committed to advocating for updated sports policies from government agencies to help players excel and achieve their dreams. He emphasized the need for fairness and support for all genuine and disciplined players.
The closing ceremony was chaired by Seyielhouvi Nagi, executive member of the Kohima District Football Association (KDFA) while vote of thanks was proposed by KDFA senior vice President Roko Angami.
Neidilhoutuo Neibu Sechü, Vice President of KDFA, sponsored the cash prize for the Under-15 category, Seyiekhrietuo Suohu, veteran footballer, sponsored the cash award for the U-13 category, Metekhrielie Mejura, Joint Secretary KDFA, sponsored the cash prize for the Under-10 category, Mhasimhalie Mathew Yhome, President of KDFA, sponsored the trophies and medals, and Kevilebei Zashümo, Joint Secretary of KDFA, sponsored footballs.
Result:
In the Under-15 category, Khelo India Centre Greenwood Dimapur emerged the champion title and Chedema Football Academy as runner-up.
In the Under-13 category, Dimapur Sporting Club (Soccer Schools Academy) claimed the champion title, while Billy Graham FC finished as runner-up.
In the Under-10 category, Khelo India Centre Kohima lifted the champion title and Gethemgo Sports Academy as runner-up.
The winners received Rs 10,000 each while runner-up received Rs 5000 each, along with medals, certificates, and trophies. In individual awards under U-10 category-, Noto Sothu (Gethemgo Sports Academy) was named the most promising player.
Seshel Kechu (Gethemgo Sports Academy) and Hihito Zhimo (KIC Kohima) were awarded Best Player of the Tournament/Highest Scorer titles respectively.
In U-13 category, Kehethong Tep (Billy Graham FC) was named the most promising player. Lanmgouchung (Dimapur Sporting Club Soccer Schools Academy) received the Best Player of the Tournament/Highest Scorer award with seven goals.
In U-15 category, Wangchon (KIC Greenwood) was named the most promising player. Lalminhai Thomson (KIC Greenwood) was awarded Best Player of the Tournament/Highest Scorer with five goals.
The 2nd Grassroots Football Tournament, organized by the KDFA under the aegis of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA).
25 teams from across the state participated in three categories: U-10, U-13, and U-15.
