Ward 19 emerged champions of the KCCI Inter-Ward Futsal Championship, defeating Ward 1 by 3-0 in the final held at Khuochiezie (Kohima Local Ground) on October 17, marking the conclusion of the three-day tournament organised in commemoration of the 50th Golden Jubilee.
Ward 19 sealed the title with three goals scored by Keletho Rhetso (Jersey No. 6) in the 27th minute, followed by a brace from Puzoto Vitsu (Jersey No. 10) in the 36th and 37th minutes.
With the victory, Ward 19 lifted the championship trophy and claimed the top prize of Rs. 1,00,000, while Ward 1 finished as runners-up and received Rs. 60,000. The two losing semi-finalists were awarded Rs. 20,000 each.
The tournament, played from October 15 to 17, brought together wards in a competitive display of futsal, sportsmanship and community participation as part of the Golden Jubilee commemoration.
Individual honours were also presented to outstanding performers and contributors. Vizohoto Zhotso of Ward 19 was named Best Coach, while Samuel Ayemi of Ward 16 received the Golden Glove award. Puzoto Vitsu of Ward 19 was adjudged the Golden Boot winner for his goal-scoring performance, and Keneilhoulie Pielie of Ward 1 bagged the Golden Ball award.
Ward No. 6, D Block, was recognised as the Best Cheering Team and received a cash prize of Rs. 5,000.
Addressing the valedictory function of the KCCI Inter-Ward Futsal Championship, Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, MLA of the 9 Kohima Town Assembly Constituency, called for unity among youths and communities, stating that collective progress and friendship should take precedence over tribal differences.
Speaking at the conclusion of the three-day tournament, Dr Rhutso lauded the organisation’s decision to celebrate the milestone through a futsal championship, describing it as a meaningful initiative to bring young people together.
He observed that jubilees are often associated with feasting, celebrations and enjoyment, but said the KCCI’s decision to organise a sporting event had provided a platform to unite youths from different wards and communities while identifying talented players from Kohima who could potentially represent the district.
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Highlighting the significance of bringing together different tribes and communities on a common platform, Dr. Rhutso said Kohima, as the capital of Nagaland, should set an example for other parts of the state. He also expressed his aspiration for a future where tribalism would give way to greater unity.
“Today, the tribe is not important, but the unity is,” he said, pointing out that players from different backgrounds could stand together as teammates with a shared goal.
He further emphasised that social and economic backgrounds should not determine a person’s worth, stating that players from rich and poor families compete on equal terms on the field, united by the common ambition of winning for their respective wards.
Referring to the final contest between Ward 1 and Ward 19, Dr. Rhutso remarked that the participation of the first and last wards in the final symbolically included all the wards in the tournament. He said every ward could feel part of the occasion and regard itself as a winner through the spirit of participation and unity.
Describing football and futsal as lessons for life, the MLA stressed the importance of dedication, discipline, teamwork, coordination and respect for opponents. He said these qualities were equally essential in everyday life and in building stronger communities.
Dr Rhutso also reminded players that individual talent could not shine without the support and presence of teammates. While acknowledging extraordinary performers, he said their achievements were made possible by others who shared the field with them, urging talented players to recognise the importance of friendship and collective effort.
He congratulated the KCCI for bringing together different sections of Kohima through the Golden Jubilee celebration and expressed hope that the occasion would help resolve misunderstandings among its members and restore friendship and harmony.
Acknowledging the organisation’s progress under different leaderships, he noted that systematic improvements had been made in the city’s business community, while observing that more work remained to be done.
The MLA assured KCCI members of his willingness to extend assistance wherever possible, stating that he would support the organisation within his means.
Concluding his address, Dr Rhutso expressed confidence that the tournament had enabled participants to know one another better and strengthened unity across the city. He said such initiatives would help the younger generation carry forward the values of togetherness and progress towards a better future for Kohima.
Earlier in the programme, the valedictory function was chaired by Vizosienuo Shüya, with the invocation offered by Rev. M. Sungba, Pastor of Chang Baptist Church. Sentien Kichu presented a special number, while Grace Swu, General Secretary of KCCI, delivered the vote of thanks.
The tournament was managed by Kohima Town Club (KTC) in collaboration with the Kohima District Football Association (KDA) and Kohima Press Club (KPC).
