ZDFA hosts first-ever AIFF D-license coaching course in Zunheboto

Morung Express News
Zunheboto | May 2

The Zunheboto District Football Association (ZDFA) is conducting it’s first-ever D-License coaching course for Nagaland State in Zunheboto District from May 2 to 7.

Inoka Yepthomi, President, ZDFA, shared that the association had long been planning to organize this course. “Fortunately, we were given this opportunity. We extend our sincere thanks to the Nagaland Football Association and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for granting us the privilege to host the D-License course in Zunheboto for the very first time.”

He added, “We have a vision and a plan — once these coaches are trained, they will contribute to the growth and development of young footballers. Our aim is to begin at the grassroots level, so that football in Nagaland can grow in collaboration with the AIFF and reach greater heights.”

The course is open to participants from across Nagaland of the 23 participants, three are from Mon district, one from Kiphire, five from Dimapur, and the remaining are from Zunheboto district. Most participants are between the ages of 20 and 30. Although the AIFF gave us very short notice, we accepted the challenge and worked hard to meet all requirements and ensure the event’s success.

Describing the course’s importance, Inoka said, “The D-License is the first step toward becoming a professional coach. Once participants clear this level, they can progress to the C-License, B-License, and even A-License. This course is an entry point to numerous opportunities in football, both within and outside Nagaland — and even internationally.”

The course is being led by Vikash Panthi, an A-License coach and AIFF Coach Educator from Shillong. It includes both theoretical and practical sessions. Candidates are required to undergo multiple on-field practical sessions, and they must pass two practical exams and one theory exam covering general football knowledge, specific coaching techniques, and basic laws of the game. To earn certification, candidates must clear at least one practical and the theory exam which will be conducted in Zunheboto.

Inoka further stressed the association’s ongoing commitment despite challenges. “Despite limited infrastructure and financial constraints, we continue to give coaching to our players and send them to Dr. T Ao tournaments every year. And we have the same tournament coming up on August 1 to 15 at Kohima so after this D-License course, we plan to set up training camps for students and players, making use of the newly trained coaches.”

Vika V. Zhimomi, a participant and ZDFA Organizing Secretary, said, “I’m taking this D-License course to contribute to the growth of football in Zunheboto. So far, we haven’t had any certified D-License coaches in town. As a manager and a committed member of ZDFA, I believe it’s important for me to be certified so I can actively support football development here.”