The 1st Edition of Longleng District Football League concluded on August 22, with MLA & Advisor, Airways & Railways, A Pongshi Phom, as the special guest.

In his speech, the special guest asserted that he was delighted to be a part of the closing ceremony of the 1st edition of Longleng District Football League 2026, organized by the Longleng District Football Association. He expressed his gratitude to everyone who have rendered their selfless service during the untold hardship faced by the people of the district during the disaster caused by heavy downpour of rains causing irreparable loses.

He also expressed his sincere appreciation to Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio; MLA & Advisor for NSDMA; Indian Air Force; the Nagaland State Transport Department; various departments headed by DC and SP; PPC; Phomla Hoichem; PSC; Chamber of Commerce; Village Councils and various welfare unions, NGOs, individuals, well-wishers for their contribution and support extended to the people of the district during the disaster.

He also thanked the general public for their patience, co-operation and having faith in the governmental of the day. He appealed to the citizens of Longleng to continued their joint efforts, extend all possible assistance and co-operation in the days to come.

He congratulated the finalist for making it to the final through their hard work and dedication.

He expressed his appreciation to the President, his team and the Planning Committee for organising such important event in the district, giving platform to the promising upcoming younger generation in achieving their dreams. He encouraged the LDFA to continue with such progressive activities for the betterment of the upcoming younger generation.

He hoped that the tournament will not go in vain as many of our young talents will have the opportunity to participate in the 25th edition of Dr T Ao, Inter-District Football Championship 2026. He also informed that the Nagaland United Sports Club is all set to make a significant step into national football after reaching an agreement, to acquire Aizawl Football Club’s Indian Football League (IFL) License.

If approve by the All-India Football Federation (AIFF), Nagaland United is expected to play their home matches in Dimapur, marking the state’s entry into the Indian Football League (IFL).

“We are all aware that, the state of Manipur is widely known as ‘The Powerhouse of Sports’ or the ‘Sports Capital’ of India. Likewise, the youngsters of Longleng district have the inborn talent and potentials to make Longleng, the ‘Footballer District’ of Nagaland state,” he said.

Keeping this in mind, he called upon the youths to contribute in every possible way in achieving this goal.

Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play

Stating that problems do not originate from outside, but it resides within ourselves, he said we are found to be blinded by strong hurdles such as bias, favouritism, unfair means, unjust act etc. He, therefore, urged everyone to have strong commitment not to abuse the authority but to be fair and just in every Games and Sports.

“Sports teaches us the importance of team spirit, unity, respect, patience, consistency, discipline, obedience, physical fitness and many more. It is not only about winning trophies but also to lead a good and healthy life style,” he added. He called upon the players to stay away from drugs, substance abuse, intoxicants and anti-social activities which will go a long way in shaping your dreams of becoming a successful person. He also declared the final match open.

The President LDFA, Pangnau Phom, delivered the greetings, while T Chumoi Phom, presented a special song during the programme.

In the final match, the United Nyenching Club defeated Irenic FC by 2-1. The individual awardees of the trophy were: Best Coach, Laimeishem Club, P Bushing Phom; Emerging Player, Chingyang Y Phom, Ya-Ouh FC; Best Player and Golden Boot, I Phongyei Phom, Irenic FC; Best Goalkeeper, Y Baüang Phom.

Earlier, the closing ceremony commenced with an invocation prayer pronounced by Executive Secretary PBCA, N Tialemba Phom, while the welcomed address was delivered by the Vice President Longleng District Football Association, H Pae Phom.

The closing ceremony culminated with a vote of thanks by Assistant Finance Secretary LDFA, S. Chingnyei Phom.