Dr T Ao Junior Girls’ National Football Championship 2025–26 Trophy on display during opening ceremony on November 22. (Morung Photo)
Underscores Dr T Ao’s legacy as State hosts first-ever national football tournament
Morung Express News
Chümoukedima | November 22
Nagaland on Saturday marked a milestone by hosting its first national level football tournament, the Dr Talimeren Ao Junior Girls’ National Football Championship 2025–26 (Tier 2), at the Chümoukedima Football Stadium.
Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio described the occasion as a “momentous milestone,” noting the State’s debut as a national level football host, while also celebrating the unity, strength and spirit of Indian sports through the participation of young talent from across the country.
“Hosting an event of this scale reflects both pride and the State’s readiness to nurture talent, develop infrastructure, and contribute to the growth of Indian sports,” he added.
He also expressed hope that the tournament would pave the way for more national and international events in Nagaland and inspire young athletes to dream beyond boundaries, just as Dr Ao once did.
Declaring the championship open, CM Rio said the tournament holds deeper significance as it honours Dr Ao, India’s first football captain at the 1948 London Olympics, whose achievements continue to inspire the nation.
Born in Changki village in Mokokchung district, Dr Ao rose from modest beginnings to lead a newly independent India on the world stage. His journey, the Chief Minister said, proved that determination and passion can overcome every challenge.
CM Rio expressed pride and gratitude to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for renaming the tournament after Dr Ao during its Executive Committee meeting in Hyderabad on September 10, 2024. He called it a “fitting recognition” and noted that it is the first national tournament in India named after a Naga personality.
Beyond its symbolic importance, Rio said the championship highlights the rise of women’s football in India, reflecting the growing strength and confidence of young athletes and their participation from diverse regions underscores the country’s commitment to equality and empowerment.
The championship, he said, is more than a competition; it is a platform for young girls to realise their potential, forge friendships, and showcase resilience.
He further maintained that as India moves toward the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, sports will continue to unite people and instil values of teamwork, discipline and perseverance that strengthen national identity.
CM Rio encouraged the players to compete with passion, respect and fairness, noting that true victory lies in effort, discipline, and sportsmanship.
S Keoshu Yimkhiung, Advisor, Department of Youth Resources & Sports (DYRS), welcomed the participating teams, describing the championship as not just a contest of skill but “a celebration of teamwork, sportsmanship and the spirit of women athletes.” He encouraged players to enjoy every moment and uphold fairness and respect on the field.
Nagaland Football Association (NFA) President and AIFF Executive Member, K Neibou Sekhose, described the tournament as “history in the making” and expressed appreciation to the AIFF for awarding Nagaland the hosting rights and to the State Government for its continued support of football development.
He added that the event is a fitting tribute to Dr Ao’s legacy and a proud moment for the entire Naga sporting community, though it took 76 years to honour the man who led the Indian football team as captain.
The inaugural ceremony featured the introduction of teams, flag hoisting, and a folk-fusion performance with songs. Despite the celebratory tone and repeated references to the event’s “historic” nature, the opening programme saw a modest turnout and minor technical lapses that slightly dampened the atmosphere.
A total of 13 states, divided into four groups, are competing in the Tier-II championship, which runs until December 11.
The team include: Group A- Uttar Pradesh, Tripura; Group B- Uttarakhand, Andaman & Nicobar, Punjab, Nagaland; Group C - Assam, Jammu & Kashmir, Chandigarh; Group D- Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Mizoram, Madhya Pradesh.
