Nagaland hosts first-ever referees’ conclave in Kohima

KOHIMA — The first-ever referees' conclave with Riiohlang Dhar, FIFA assistant referee; Devala Devi Elangbam, FIFA assistant referee; and Ranjita Devi Tekcham, FIFA referee, organised by the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), was held on Thursday at Hotel Vivor, Kohima.

Ranjita Devi Tekcham from Manipur received the AIFF Best Women Referee award for the year 2024-25, and Riiohlang Dhar from Meghalaya received the AIFF Best Women Assistant Referee award for the year 2024-25.

Kethosituo Sekhose, director of Youth Resources and Sports, Nagaland, on the occasion asserted that the government is committed to promoting football in the state and has therefore introduced the Nagaland Super League (NSL).

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He also shared that futsal ground owners have expressed that, after the NSL, bookings of turf grounds have increased and thus claimed that this is the change they are looking forward to.

He highlighted that referees play a great role in ensuring that the game goes well and is loved by spectators, citing that spectators watch not only the players but also the referees, and that players likewise appreciate the judgement of a good referee.

Citing that it is disheartening to watch a game when the referee is bad, he added that their role also goes beyond the ground. Further, he mentioned that employment opportunities as referees are very high.

He impressed upon the referee participants to go beyond Level 5 so that they will be able to officiate national games as well.

Neibou Sekhose, president of the Nagaland Football Association, in his speech, advised the referees to believe in themselves and their ability. He also encouraged them to work hard and enjoy the game, as well as learn from mistakes and have fun, as their dedication will take them to places.

The FIFA referees gave speeches on the 'Role and importance of referees' and encouraged the upcoming referees to never give up on their dreams but to give their best to reach the top. They also advised them to always take feedback in a positive way so that they can grow.

They further held an interactive session with the referees of Nagaland.