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KOHIMA — Mecievi Khieya, a 23-year-old winger hailing from Nagaland who captured the attention of Thailand's Thonburi United FC during a recent trial held at IG Stadium in Kohima, will be joining the team soon for the season.
Khieya emerged as the sole winner of the 'Nagaland next top player Thonburi United' trial with his standout performance marking a significant milestone in his football career.
His outstanding performances earned him a spot in Thonburi United, a prominent football club associated with Thonburi University in Bangkok, Thailand. The club competed in the Thai League 3, representing the Bangkok metropolitan region.
In an interview with Eastern Mirror, Khieya shared his joy and described his selection for Thonburi United's roster affectionately known as the 'Thonburi Side Warhorse' as unexpected.
The footballer, acknowledging the rarity of professional trials in Nagaland, considered himself fortunate among the numerous players to secure a spot with the club.
Originally from Jakhama village, Khieya expressed his gratitude to God as well as to the state's department of Youth Resources and Sports (YRS) for organising the two-day trial. He also expressed gratitude to the club for acknowledging his potential and offering him a place in the player pool.
The player recounted his dedication to upholding a rigorous practice and fitness routine upon learning about the trial specifically designed for wingers and strikers.
When asked about the necessity of intensifying fitness activities to compete in a professional league in Thailand, Khieya emphasised the importance of rigorous training and maintaining peak physical condition both on and off the field.
He stressed the significance of hard work and adhering to a disciplined diet, acknowledging that additional effort would be required to succeed in the professional league in Thailand.
Anticipating that he would excel in the league, Khieya apprised that he had received an invitation from SC Nagaland to undergo necessary training. Eagerly anticipating the announcement of his training schedule, expected in the coming weeks before his departure to Thailand, the lad looks forward to joining his squad for further training while actively participating in the club.
At the official introduction ceremony held in Kohima on April 3, Khieya, whose favourite footballer is Cristiano Ronaldo, was formally introduced in the presence of Kanabuadee Yamchuti, manager of Thonburi United, as well as officials from YRS and Nagaland Football Association (NFA) following the trial.
Khieya's accolades included Dr. Talimeren Ao Award during the 32nd Graduation Day of St. Joseph's College (autonomous), Jakhama, in 2022. He was a member of the championship-winning squad in the 6th Agape Cup (National Christian Football Championship) in Kohima in 2022. That same year, he was also honoured as the 'Best Camper' during a seven-day football camp in Manipur.
The chosen player will be offered a professional contract spanning an initial four-month period.
The comprehensive agreement encompasses salary, accommodation, tickets and match bonuses among others, signifying a significant opportunity for Khieya to showcase his talent on a professional stage.
Khieya, who first started playing football at the age of seven, stressed the importance of increased scouting in Nagaland. He highlighted that such efforts could provide players with greater exposure beyond their country's borders. Comparing Nagaland to neighbouring states like Manipur, where trials are conducted regularly, he lamented lack of sports infrastructure in the state.
Khieya further emphasised the need for players to take initiative and not solely rely on the government for development.