The 6th season of the Mokokchung Football League (MFL) is set to kick off on April 12, 2025, with an expanded format and several new features aimed at enhancing the overall experience for both players and fans. The announcement was made at a press conference held at Urban Hub Café, Mokokchung on Thursday.
This season will feature 25 match days with a total of 75 matches, a significant increase from last season’s 60 matches across 20 match days. One of the key highlights this year is the introduction of a “Player of the Match” award for every match, sponsored by Sentiyanger of Unique Bakery.
The participating teams this season are:
Revenant FC
Terokroker FC
Trebuchet FC
Nova Sporting Club (formerly Senso FC)
New Ecclesia
Wasang FC
The 6th season also marks a change in leadership, with Aongsen Aier taking over as the new Convenor of the MFL, and Imcharen Lusang appointed as Secretary and Coordinator. Senior member Dr. Lanu Walling, while addressing the press, reflected on the league’s journey, stating, “The MFL was born from a casual conversation over tea among like-minded individuals who wanted to create a stress-relieving activity. We felt that starting a league for the 35+ age group was a meaningful initiative—and it has grown steadily since.”
He emphasized the league’s guiding principles of “3Fs” — Friendship, Fellowship, and Fitness — noting that some players are as old as 56-57 years, showing that age is no barrier to staying active and engaged. “We are all involved in social and community work, and the league serves as a much-needed outlet for stress,” he added.
The organisers emphasized that the league is not driven by prize money, although awards are given to champions, runners-up, and individual performers. Instead, the primary focus remains on promoting friendship, fellowship, and fitness among members. Notably, the MFL does not rely on external fundraising or sponsorships. Rather, it is a self-sustained initiative, with each player contributing Rs 1,000 towards the league’s expenses. Additionally, well-wishers from within the league community offer support when needed. Match officiating duties are assigned to specific teams through a signed contract, ensuring the smooth functioning and sustainability of the league.
Looking beyond the present, the organisers are keen on reviving football culture in Mokokchung. They acknowledged the efforts of Marepkong Youth Association for the ‘Interward Football Tournament’ and the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) for promoting football through various tournaments.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
Dr. Lanu expressed concern over the declining number of players from Mokokchung making it to state and national levels. “Mokokchung has always been a footballing district, but in recent years, our representation has dwindled. We realize now that while playing ourselves is good, the real revival must begin at the grassroots.”
In this direction, the MFL plans to organise a Coaching Camp Clinic for Under-10 and Under-12 categories under the Baby League initiative. They also announced plans to bring in a renowned national-level coach to lead the initiative, aligning with the league’s long-term aspirations.
The organisers urged parents, and the wider community to support the initiative and encourage young talents to pursue the sport seriously. “If we want to see talent rise, we must support them from the beginning,” they said.
When asked about the impact of MFL over the past five seasons, the organisers noted that it has contributed to healthier lifestyles among its members. “We’ve seen many positive changes—particularly among habitual drinkers—who’ve mellowed down. It has encouraged fitness and a better way of life.”
Highlighting its contribution to the state-level veterans’ scene, Dr. Lanu proudly shared that many MFL players, aged 45 and above, have represented Mokokchung in veteran tournaments. “As long as MFL exists, Mokokchung’s veteran football scene is safe,” he stated confidently.
