KDFA launches Atuo Mezhür Sekhose Super League, honouring the football administrator while promoting youth development and club professionalism in Nagaland
KOHIMA — The Kohima District Football Association (KDFA) on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the family of Late Atuo Mezhür Sekhose to launch the Atuo Mezhür Sekhose Super League, a premier district football competition dedicated to honouring one of Nagaland's longest-serving football administrators. The MoU was signed during a programme held in Kohima.
Speaking at the event, KDFA General Secretary Viliebiezo Liezietsu said the league is not merely a football tournament but an initiative to preserve Sekhose's legacy while creating new opportunities for football development in the district.
Describing Sekhose as a visionary football administrator, educator and mentor, Liezietsu said he played a pivotal role in the growth of football in Nagaland and beyond. Sekhose served as President and General Secretary of the Nagaland Football Association and later as Vice President of the All India Football Federation, making significant contributions to the development of the sport at both the state and national levels.
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He said the Atuo Mezhür Sekhose Super League has been envisioned as KDFA's premier competition and aims to raise the standard of football through a professionally managed and transparent league while strengthening clubs, providing a structured pathway for talented players and promoting discipline, professionalism and sportsmanship.
The inaugural edition will feature eight teams competing in a single round-robin format, with the top four teams qualifying for the Champions Cup.
To promote youth development, each team will be required to field at least two Under-20 players in its starting XI. Teams may register a maximum of three guest players, of whom only two can feature in the playing XI.
Liezietsu also announced that 20% of all match-day ticket revenue will be contributed to the Atuo Mezhür Sekhose Trust Fund. He added that two slots have been reserved for clubs from Tseminyu district in recognition of its long football association with KDFA prior to the creation of the district.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Lhouvizosier Mezhür Sekhose thanked the association for honouring his father's legacy through the league.
Recalling his father's lifelong passion for sports, he said Late Atuo Mezhür Sekhose remained deeply committed to football administration and played an instrumental role in promoting the game at both the state and national levels.