Advisor for IPR and Soil and Water Conservation, Daochir I Imchen addresses the gathering during the second football semi-final match of the ongoing 25th Dr T Ao Trophy held at Renpo Lu Sports Complex, Ungma in Mokokchung on October 27.
Mokokchung, October 28 (MExN): Advisor for Information and Public Relations (IPR) and Soil and Water Conservation, Daochir I Imchen, attended the second semi-final of the 25th Dr T Ao Trophy Inter-District Football Championship as the guest of honour at the Renpo Lu Sports Complex, Ungma, Mokokchung, on October 27.
Addressing the gathering, Imchen recounted the legacy of Dr T Ao, who led India's first Olympic football team at the 1948 London Olympics despite limited resources, exposure and opportunities during his time.
He appreciated the organising committee for keeping Dr T Ao's legacy alive and providing opportunities for young people. He also congratulated the semi-finalists for their determination, sacrifice, perseverance and teamwork.
Reminding the players of their responsibilities, Imchen said that while the jerseys they wore represented their respective districts, the character they displayed reflected who they were as individuals.
"No district can prosper in isolation; no community can progress by leaving others behind, and no state can achieve greatness without unity among its people," he said, urging people to remember that they belonged to one larger Naga family beyond the competition.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by thousands of talented young people across the state in finding opportunities, Imchen appreciated Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for his leadership and vision in laying the foundations of an ecosystem that would enable young people to explore opportunities and realise their potential.
He said the greatest resource of the state lay in the talent and energy of its youth, highlighting their ambitions, creativity and potential.
Imchen also emphasised the responsibility of ensuring that the next generation inherited a future worthy of the proud legacy left by Dr T Ao.
He encouraged the players to dream bigger and aspire to become the best, not only in their respective districts and the state but also at the national level, while upholding the highest standards of sportsmanship.
Tuensang beat Z’boto 4-3 to enter Dr T Ao Trophy final
Tuensang defeated Zunheboto 4-3 in the second semi-final to book a place in the final against defending champions Mon on October 29 at the Renpo Lu Sports Complex, Ungma, Mokokchung.
