24th NSF Martyrs' Memorial Trophy to kick off on September 14

KOHIMA — The Angami Students' Union (ASU) has announced that the 24th Naga Students' Federation (NSF) Martyrs' Memorial Trophy will be held from September 14 to October 5 at IG Stadium in Kohima.

The announcement was made at the ASU office on Monday.

Briefing the media, the organising committee, led by convenor Vizokho Zashümo, co-convenor Tseituo Norbert Mere, and ASU games and sports secretary Metebo-o Sote, the prestigious tournament will feature night matches and this edition will serve as a preparatory event for the silver jubilee edition next year.

The NSF Martyrs' Memorial Trophy is held in honour of Kekuojalie Sachü and Vikhozo Yhoshü, who were killed in indiscriminate police firing on March 20, 1986, during a peaceful NSF protest against the introduction of Indian Police Service cadres and the extension of the Disturbed Area Belt from 5 to 20 km along the Indo-Myanmar border.

The organisers are anticipating participation of many as 35 to 40 teams, as invitations have been extended to teams within and outside the state, as well as colleges. Teams from neighbouring states like Manipur, Assam and Meghalaya are expected to participate.

Defending champions Red Scars FC and runners-up Liangmai FC are also expected to compete again this year.

The prize money for this year tournament has been increased: INR 3,00,000 for the champions; INR 1,08,000 for runners-up; INR 40,000 each for two semi-finalists; and INR 25,000 each for the four quarter-finalists.

The Player of the Tournament will receive INR 50,000, while Best Midfielder, Best Defender, Best Custodian, and Top Scorer will receive INR 10,000 each.

Entry forms can be availed at INR 200 from August 1, at various locations, including the ASU office, Sports Paradise (Keziekie), Sports World (Main Town), and Royal Enfield (High School) in Kohima; Falcon Corner at Medziphema; G-Sports at Chümoukedima; and Kiran Sports and Stationery in Dimapur, while the entry fee per team is INR 7,000. The last date for submission of form is September 7.

The entry ticket has been fixed at INR 50 before the quarter-finals, and INR 100 from the quarter-finals to the final.

An open invitation has been extended to interested groups for ground management during this edition, said the organisers, adding that it will be on first-come, first-served basis.