Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio condoled the sudden demise of William Koso on March 25. “His passing is an immense loss to the sporting fraternity, particularly the football community. As the Technical Head of the Nagaland Super League (NSL), he played a pivotal role in shaping the league with his expertise, dedication, and unwavering passion for the game,” stated the CM in a condolence message.
Stating that William’s invaluable contributions to football in Nagaland have left an indelible mark, Rio noted that through Koso’s mentorship, the careers of hundreds of players and coaches—not just in Nagaland but across the region were nurtured and moulded.
“His tireless efforts and selfless sacrifices will be remembered and honoiired for generations to come. A highly respected figure in the sporting community, William’s achievements extended well beyond the NSL. He was a distinguished Coach Educator for both the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and also served as the Technical Advisor to the Nagaland Football Coaches Association (NFCA). His deep commitment to the growth of football in the state, and his dedication to guiding young talent, was truly commendable. His influence reached far beyond the pitch, as he worked relentlessly to elevate the standard of football in Nagaland to new heights. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of athletes and sports enthusiasts,” shared Rio.
The CM further conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, and wished to Almighty God to grant them strength and solace in this difficult time.
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The Nagaland Football Association (NFA) and the Nagaland football community also expressed deep shock over the untimely demise of its prominent member and friend, Late N. William Koso on the fateful morning of March 24 at Chümoukedima.
“Late William was a very pro-active and dedicated professional whose commitment, knowledge and experience for the development of football in particular and sports in general stands out as a ‘bright shining light’ in Nagaland sports and beyond. He was not only a well-decorated footballer and Coach but also stands out as the first AFC ‘A’ Licenced Coach from Nagaland and also served as a AIFF Coach Educator, in the capacities of which he has impacted the lives and careers of hundreds and thousands of footballers, coaches and others involved in the game alike in Nagaland and beyond through his strong leadership and influence backed by his vast technical knowledge and rich experience,” stated the NFA.
It further added, “He served the NFA sincerely and dedicatedly till his last breath and made numerous significant contributions for the development of football in particular and sports in general in various capacities over the years and was the ‘go-to-man’ of the Association at all times. Lt. William Koso’s influence and dedication on and off the field has led to many great achievements for the Association and for Nagaland football and deserves all due credit for the rapid development of football and particularly professionalism in football in the state and beyond.”
The NFA also noted that Koso was one of the key figures in Nagaland football and also the driving force behind the success of the ongoing Nagaland Super League (NSL) in his capacity as the Convenor of the NSL Technical Committee and beyond.
“Through his loss, the NFA and the sporting community has not only lost an outstanding professional but also a thorough gentleman and a dear friend, a dedicated mentor and an invaluable colleague. Beyond football, the family has lost a precious and loving husband, father, son and brother while the Naga community has lost a distinguished personality amongst us and a responsible, respected and valuable member of the society. We firmly believe that he has done his jobs well and left for his Heavenly abode with our Creator. Life’s worth, they say, is not counted by how long one lived but counted by how much one did and we remain grateful to God and to him for his short yet meaningful and fruitful life on earth,” expressed the NFA.
As the football community mourn the irreplaceable loss of its dear and significant member along with his family, the NFA prayed for strength, comfort and solace to his beloved wife, his children and his bereaved family members in this hour of grief and deep sorrow.
