SAGSA team captain receives the cash prize and citation from Chief Guest at the District Sports Council Ground, Zunheboto, on March 14. (Morung Photo)
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Morung Express News
Zunheboto | March 14
The Sumi Aphuyemi Games and Sports Association (SAGSA), Pughoboto Area, emerged champions after defeating the Satakha Area Culture and Sports Association (SASCA) 4–1 in the final of the 1st Intra-District U-23 Football Tournament held at the District Sports Council Ground, Zunheboto, on March 14.
The tournament was organised by the District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) in collaboration with the Zunheboto District Football Association (ZDFA). Deputy Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly and Chairman of DPDB, S Toiho Yeptho, attended the event as the Guest of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, Yeptho encouraged the young footballers to remain dedicated and disciplined in the sport. He emphasised that football is not only about winning matches but also about teamwork, perseverance and sportsmanship.
Citing legendary footballers such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Diego Maradona, he said their success came through hard work, determination and an unyielding passion for the game. He urged the players to learn from such global icons and strive to improve their skills through regular practice and commitment.
Yeptho expressed hope that tournaments like this would enable talented players from Zunheboto district to compete in the Dr T Ao Trophy and represent the district with pride. He encouraged the youth to view football as a platform to showcase their abilities and bring recognition to the district.
Highlighting the importance of sports in youth development, he said competitions like the Intra-District U-23 tournament help nurture local talent and provide opportunities for young players to gain competitive experience. He also urged players to maintain discipline on and off the field, stressing that true sportsmanship lies in respecting teammates, opponents and officials.
Altogether six teams from Zunheboto district participated in the tournament. The prize money included Rs 75,000 for the champions, Rs 50,000 for the runners-up, Rs 25,000 each for the two semifinalists, and Rs 10,000 each for the participating teams.
The programme was chaired by Tavinto K Sumi, General Secretary of ZDFA, while the invocation was pronounced by Itokato V Chophi, Associate Pastor (M) of Sumi Baptist Church, Zunheboto. A special number was presented by Hinoto Zhimo.
The tournament, organised to promote sports and encourage youth participation in football across the district, witnessed enthusiastic participation from teams representing various ranges of the district.
