NSL U-20 scholarship team flagged off for National Training Programme

SOVIMA, JUNE 17 (MExN): The NSL U-20 Scholarship Team was officially flagged off today at the Nagaland Olympic Association Office, Sovima, ahead of a national-level high-performance training programme under the NSL Scholarship for U-20 initiative.

The programme is a collaborative effort between the Nagaland Super League (NSL), Nagaland Olympic Association (NOA), and the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), JSW. It aims to identify and nurture promising football talent from Nagaland.

The event began with a moment of silence in honour of the late Atuo Mezhür for his contributions to sports and youth development, followed by a special prayer led by Rev. Zhau Sanchu, Pastor, CRC Sovima.

The send-off programme was attended by several dignitaries including Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister, Chairman of IDAN, Vice President of the Athletics Federation of India, and Secretary General of the NOA; Benei M. Lamthiu, Chairman of NSL, General Secretary of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), and MLA; Mughato Aye, Vice President, NFA; Kuputo Shohe, Joint Secretary, NOA; and Neivikuolie Nicholas Khatsu, Assistant Secretary General, NOA.

Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries lauded the NSL U-20 Scholarship as a visionary initiative conceptualised by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. They noted its potential to elevate the profile of football in Nagaland and place local athletes on the national map.

The 16-member team, along with three support staff, will undergo a fully sponsored, one-month high-performance training from June 8 to July 7, 2025. All expenses—including round-trip airfare (Dimapur–Bellary), accommodation, and a monthly allowance—are being covered by NSL.

Phase 1 (June 8–18, Chümoukedima):

The pre-departure training camp focused on fitness, tactical drills, and mental conditioning. A friendly match was also played against SC Nagaland Thonburi United at the Chümoukedima Football Stadium.

Phase 2 (June 18–July 7, IIS, Bellary):
A 20-day elite training programme will be held at the Inspire Institute of Sport, India’s first privately funded, world-class sports training facility. IIS has trained numerous top athletes including Neeraj Chopra, Bajrang Punia, and Sakshi Malik, contributing to over 243 international medals.
As part of a partnership with Bengaluru FC, players will also train with the club’s academy, engage in friendly matches, and gain exposure to a professional football environment.
The Chief Minister is scheduled to visit the Inspire Institute of Sport during the training period to interact with the team, reaffirming the state government’s support for youth and sports development.

Team Members:Defenders:
Nokwang Konyak, Kevisekho Miasalhou, Thejangulie Zatsu, Rovizo, Neingusalie Timothi Soliezuo, Hesaka V Chophi

Forwards:
Arap Konyak, Ngansang K Phom, Rokoselie Rhitso, Vinato Achumi

Midfielders:
Ato Chopi, Ketouselie Miasalhou, Mangkholen, Paotinsat Sitlhou

Goalkeepers:
Changsomba Chang, Mengulhoukho Chalieu

Coaching & Support Staff:
Khogen Singh (Head Coach), Khwetelhi Thopi (Assistant Coach), Kechi (Assistant Coach)