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KOHIMA — The 24th NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy kicked off on Saturday evening at Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima. The event was inaugurated by Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton, and a total of 43 teams are competing for the title.
The championship, organised on the theme “Goal for peace” by the Angami Students’ Union (ASU) in memory of Lt. Kekuojalie Sachü and Lt. Vikhozo Yhoshü, will continue until October 5.
Patton, the inaugural guest, said in his speech that the tournament has become one of the biggest sporting events in the state. He acknowledged the ASU for their efforts in organising the event, stating that their dedication to fostering unity through sports is truly commendable.
Asserting that young athletes are the leaders of tomorrow, he maintained that the friendships they forge during this tournament, the respect they show to their opponents, and the sportsmanship they display will have ripple effects far beyond the stadium.
He called for remembering and honouring the sacrifices of the martyrs and all those who have given their lives for the people, adding that their memory serves as a constant reminder of the immeasurable value of peace.
Stating that the government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote peace, unity, and development, Patton said, "We recognise the power of sports and culture, and we will continue to invest in our youth, our artists, and events that bring our communities together.
“Our government is fully committed to nurturing athletic talent and creating a robust sports infrastructure that will pave the way for our youth to excel on national and international stages."
He also mentioned the recent achievement of Hokato Hotozhe Sema, who won the bronze medal in the shot put F-57 category at the 2024 Summer Paralympics in Paris, stating that Nagas are very proud of him and that everyone can learn much from his success.
Further, he called upon the gathering to see the tournament not just as a celebration of football but as a celebration of the sporting spirit that resides in every Naga. Through this, he said, the future of sports in Nagaland is bright, and each one of them has the potential to add to its lustre.
A solidarity speech was delivered by Medovi Rhi, president of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), while the welcome address was delivered by Khriesamhalie David Mere, president of ASU. Metebo-o Sote, secretary of games and sports, ASU, administered the oath to the participating teams.
Earlier in the evening, a curtain-raiser event was held featuring various artists like Vetho, Moko, Mengu, Guru Gee, Tutu, Litsuku, Vidi & Vivo, and the 15th NAP (IR) Mahila Band. Also, in the morning, a wreath-laying and flag-hoisting ceremony was held at the NSF Martyrs’ Park in Kohima.
The champions of this edition will receive INR 3 lakh, while the runners-up will receive INR 1.80 lakh. The semi-finalists will get INR 40,000 each, and the quarter-finalists will receive INR 25,000 each. Individual awards for the best midfielder, defender, and top scorer have been set at INR 10,000 each. The player of the tournament will be awarded INR 50,000.
Out of the 43 teams contesting, 34 are from Nagaland, while nine are from Manipur.
The inaugural match was played between Red Scars FC and Mez & Co.