Defending champions Feb. 29 from Dimapur successfully retained the title of the 2nd Open Futsal Tournament, organised by the Khensa Students’ Union (KSU) under the aegis of the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) after defeating Mongsenbai FC 5-0 in the final played at Asameyaa Futsal Turf, Yimyu Ward, Mokokchung on July 11. The tournament was held from July 9 to 11 under the theme, “One Game. One Passion. One Goal.”
The champions received a cash prize of Rs 50,000, while runners-up Mongsenbai FC were awarded Rs 30,000.
Individual awards carrying Rs 3,000 each were also presented. Abu of Feb. 29 won the Highest Goal Scorer award who scored 19 goals in total, while teammate Yanger was adjudged the Best Player of the tournament. Imkumer of Mongsenbai FC received the Best Goalkeeper award.
A total of 25 men’s teams from Mokokchung, Tuli and Dimapur participated in the three-day tournament.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Atsungba Walling, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Mokokchung, said football has become one of the most discussed topics across the world during the ongoing FIFA World Cup, with people of all ages and backgrounds following the matches and supporting their favourite players and teams.
He said that beyond the excitement of the game, football offers important life lessons. He highlighted teamwork as the foremost quality, stating that success comes through the contribution of every member of the team.
He also stressed the importance of discipline, saying that all-round discipline is essential in every aspect of life. Emphasizing mental fitness, he said mental clarity, emotional stability, self-control and physical fitness are equally important for personal growth.
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The ADC further underscored the value of respect and sportsmanship, encouraging players to maintain mutual respect both on and off the field. He also spoke on resilience, saying the ability to make a comeback after setbacks is an important quality that every individual should develop.
Walling observed that while many people treat sports as seasonal activities, determination and success require consistent hard work and dedication. Referring to recent police recruitment, he noted that although 125 posts were advertised, less than half of the candidates qualified the physical endurance test, pointing to the need for greater emphasis on physical fitness among the youth.
Congratulating both finalists, he encouraged the players and supporters to continue promoting sports as a means of building a stronger, healthier and more disciplined community.
The opening ceremony was graced by Temsupongla, Senior Treasury Officer, Mokokchung, as the special invitee. Dr Lanunochetla, District Agriculture Officer (DAO), Mokokchung, attended as the match patron on the second day, while Repameren, President, NPF Mokokchung Division, was the match patron for the semi-finals.
