The 23rd edition of NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy organised by Angami Students Union (ASU) kicked off today at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima in the presence of S. Keoshu Yimkhiung, Advisor, Youth Resources & Sports. 34 teams from across the state will be competing for the prestigious trophy.
Speaking at the inaugural function Special Guest Keoshu called the youth to realised the potentials and give importance to games and sports as it is a powerful medium that can not only fosters values of discipline and teammates but also unite communities. He pointed that Nagas by nature are all football lovers but “due to the lack of consistency and dedication”, even after 75 years no one could come up to fill the vacuum created by Dr T. Ao who led the National Football Team in the international level without having any access to infrastructure and facilities like today.
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Calling the youth to make use of their talents particularly in the field of sports Yimkhiung said, the state comparatively has deficits in the field of sports however, mentioned that sports infrastructure under the leadership of Neiphiu Rio is coming up in all corners of the state.
He also noted that competition is not just about winning the game but winning the hearts of others through discipline and love for profession. On the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy, the Advisor said, “this is not just a football tournament or a competition but an event to bring all Nagas from near and far to promote peace and unity through sports and the feel the oneness of all.”
Angami Student Union, President Khriesamhalie David Mere, in his presidential address, shared the reason behind observing the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy and said “We retrospect the sacrifices made by our comrade martyrs and other similar patriots who have shed their tears and blood for our betterment”. He also called to accord with the motto “Goal for Peace” by inculcating it within oneself first to promote peace in the society and to walk closer to a better society.
NSF President Medovi Rhi, delivering the solitary message said, “This tournament is a testament to the Naga spirit- a spirit that remains unbroken, spirit that transcends divisions, and a spirit that seek to build a better future” adding “just as Lt. Kekuojalie Sachü and Lt. Vikhozo Yhoshü did 37 years ago”
NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy is an annual tournament organised in remembrance and honour of Lt. Sachü of Kohima Village and Lt. Yhoshü of Kigwema village who sacrificed their lives on 20 March 1986 in a protest against the extension of Disturbed Area Belt (DAB) from 5 Km to 20 Km along the Indo-Myanmar border and also introduction of IPS cadre in the state.
Earlier Convenor, Organising Committee, Mhasimhalie Mathew Yhome delivered the keynote address and tribute song was performed by Neilaü Thaprü and Zekuosa Zhale, while invocation was pronounced by Khriekethozo Pucho, Pastor, Baptist Church Kedima.
In the first match of the tournament, defending champions New Market FC downed 14 FC 9-0. Rhitsho Mero netted five goals for the winning team while Petevizo, Bapenyimjong, Khiuwangbo and Chinyo M scored a goal each.
The tournament will go on till 14 October 2023.
On Tuesday, Mima FC will play against Youngsters in the first match while in the second match, Asufü Football Academy will take on Samaritan FC
