The Nagaland Football Association (NFA) is in talks with the All India Football Association (AIFA) to send talent scouts to identify promising players during the Dr. T. Ao Trophy, NFA General Secretary and MLA, Benei M. Lamthiu informed on Friday at a press conference held in Kohima.
The 23rd Inter-District Football Championship 2024 Dr. T. Ao Trophy will be taking place from 17th to 27th September at Tuensang’s Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground under the theme “We Score”. It will be organised by NFA and hosted by the Tuensang District Football Association (TDFA).
MLA Lamthiu also informed that the participating associations from all the 16 districts of the State were invited to Kohima for drawing the tournament fixture. He urged all players to come prepared, embodying qualities of obedience, humility, and true sportsmanship, as there will be visitors from outside the region observing their games.
MLA Lima Onen Chang, the Convenor, mentioned that all hands were on the deck to ensure the event’s grand success. As the host district, he assured that the participating teams will be well cared for and looked after to the best of their abilities. He also announced that the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, will be the Special Guest at the inaugural function.
Yangdipi Sangtam, President, Tuensang District Football Association (TDFA), stated that the Dr. T. Ao Trophy 2024 will be historic for the ENPO area, as Tuensang will be the first district from the eastern region to host it. Sangtam also expressed hope that the event will foster peace and unity within the community.
Neibu Sekhose, President, NFA, announced that each district will receive ₹50,000 to assist with their preparations and that the prize money for the tournament winner will be ₹2 lakh, while the semifinalists will receive ₹50,000. This prize money, along with the travel and daily allowances, is sponsored by the government, he informed.
Kevingutuo Sekhose, the Head Referee, was also present at the press conference. The initial fixture was created through a lottery system, where the names of the districts were drawn.
Group – A: Dimapur, Niuland, Chümoukedima, Phek
Group – B: Peren, Kohima, Shamator, Zunheboto
Group – 3: Longleng, Mokokchung, Kiphire, Tuensang
Group – 4: Mon, Tseminyu, Wokha, Noklak
