The Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) officially launched the Zonal Associations under the theme ‘Football at the Grassroots’. The initiative was inaugurated by Sharingain Longkümer, Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly and Chairman of the District Planning and Development Board.
At the launching dignitary of the Zonal Associations under MDFA, Sharingain Longkümer in his address, emphasized the urgent need to strengthen grassroots football and build sustainable sports infrastructure in the district.
He noted that the initiative undertaken by MDFA was “well-pondered” and timely, remarking, “It is vital to begin at the grassroots. The foundation must start from the bottom.”
Sharingain acknowledged and appreciated all previous leaderships of MDFA, saying, “Each tenure has done justice to the roles entrusted. They deserve recognition.”
He spoke about the transformation of the state from being viewed as a welfare state to a contributory and participatory one. “We can see and feel the infrastructure being developed in other regions. We aspire to reach that same standard, but to achieve such progress, we need broad-based participation,” he said.
Highlighting the role of MDFA, he stated, “To give that clarion call, we need an appropriate platform. What MDFA has initiated is commendable.” However, he expressed concern on how MDFA had to recruit players from other districts due to the lack of local player availability, saying, “It is disheartening. This is a call for us to invest more in homegrown talent.”
He praised the present government for learning from the mistakes of the past, noting that the launch of the Nagaland Super League (NSL) and well built infrastructure development was a step forward. “It was an encouraging move,” he added.
“As stakeholders of Mokokchung, we are all part of MDFA,” he affirmed, while acknowledging that although government funding is available, financial challenges remain a major concern. “Every association has its own set of demands and requirements. Funding continues to be one of the biggest challenges.”
Calling for reform, Sharingain emphasized the need to “recalibrate our associations, reinvent our hierarchical systems, and build dedicated teams led by the right leaders to move forward.” He reiterated that before Mokokchung can host major leagues like the NSL, both infrastructure and organizational structures must be completed. “A professional approach in whatever system you work in will always lead to better outcomes,” he said.
Encouraging long-term financial sustainability, he proposed the creation of a Corpus Fund through lifetime memberships. “Instead of repeatedly asking for contributions, a one-time registration model will be more effective,” he said. “We have senior members who have sacrificed 20 to 30 years for the love of football. Let’s honour that by building a sustainable foundation.”
He encouraged MDFA to “sincerely drive the lifetime membership initiative,” and to “introspect, calibrate, and work towards a higher standard of sporting culture.”
To truly penetrate the grassroots level, he stressed the importance of identifying players not just by skill, but also by discipline, determination, and a team-first mindset. “Sensitization and empowerment must go hand in hand with technical development,” he said. “We are here to support and encourage that.”
Speaking about the FIFA-grade Astroturf being developed at Rempukong, Ungma, he noted, “We now have the infrastructure—it is almost complete. Let’s wait a little longer for the landscaping and finishing touches. Once done, we expect to see matches played here, with a rostrum, VIP gallery, press amenities, parking space, bus terminal, and a multi-purpose arena in place. This is for Mokokchung, for our district.”
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He announced that a new standard of management would be introduced, with the formation of a dedicated management committee. He highlighted the difference between regular futsal turfs and this international-standard turf, stating that “after every three matches, the turf will be brushed for upkeep. Technical team to ensure proper maintenance.”
With the monsoon season approaching, he said efforts would be made to complete landscaping in time. He encouraged MDFA to take meaningful initiatives such as sporting centres and plantation drives, while support from party members of his constituency is ongoing.
“While we may not be able to compete with other districts in terms of infrastructure, we will do everything within our capacity,” he assured. “We are aiming to complete everything by December or January. Matches can be played both during the day and night.”
Reflecting emotionally, he said, “This is like seeing our dream come to life. I may not be able to do everything, but I encourage those who can—especially private investors—to step in and support.”
He concluded by recognizing the contributions of MDFA members:
“Each of you is contributing to the progress of Mokokchung through sports. Our collective aspiration for sports excellence will be realized on this very turf.”
Yimya Jamir, Executive Member (MDFA) in his address on the objectives of the newly introduced “Zonal Associations” initiative, highlighted that the concept was officially recognized by all executives in 2023, following the formation of a dedicated team. To facilitate implementation, a committee was constituted to review the constitution and resolutions. One of the primary objectives of this initiative is to decentralize and empower football development at the grassroots level through zonal structures.
Referring to Mokokchung district, Jamir recalled the district’s sporting glory during the 1970s and 1980s when young players from Mokokchung were highly sought after by other districts. However, he observed that the current state of Ao players has declined significantly. Recognizing this, the Zonal Associations have been introduced to revive and restructure the system.
He pointed out that while there are many talented players across villages and towns, there is a lack of proper platforms to showcase their skills during player selections. The new structure, as laid out in the constitution, proposes the formation of 9 Zonal Associations covering both rural and urban centers across the six Ao ranges. All clubs under these zones will be affiliated to their respective Zonal Associations, ensuring structured coordination.
Jamir also emphasized the need to streamline the various local football tournaments—whether range-wise, block-wise, or village-based—most of which have been conducted without official (MDFA)oversight. He stressed that all such tournaments must now be brought under the purview of the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA), so the association remains aware and involved in player development and talent scouting.
The goal is to identify standout players from grassroots tournaments and allow them to participate in MDFA-recognized platforms. He expressed hope that each Zonal Association can contribute at least one team to MDFA competitions, which would simplify the selection process and enhance competitiveness.
Citing challenges from recent years, Jamir referred to the 2024 Dr. T Ao Trophy held in Tuensang. He noted that even after shortlisting 40 to 50 players, Mokokchung struggled to assemble a full team strictly comprising Ao players. This often necessitated inviting Ao players from Chümoukedima, Dimapur, and Kohima. However, players permanently settled in those areas are only eligible to represent their respective districts due to NOC restrictions.
Having served as a team manager during that time, Jamir emphasized that the struggles underscored the urgent need to build from the grassroots. Without bold, transformative steps, he warned, progress would remain out of reach. That’s why the MDFA is committed to driving this initiative forward.
He announced that the 1st phase of the Zonal Associations initiative will begin from tomorrow, starting in Kubolong, Mangolemba, and Tuli.
Jamir also took a moment to recognize Namang Yimong from Yaongyimti village, a remote area along the border of Mokokchung district, who recently received the “Golden Star” award in the Nagaland Super League (NSL). He cited Yimong as an inspiring example of hidden talent flourishing despite limited access, reinforcing the importance of identifying and nurturing such players.
He concluded by saying that the aim is not only to help players compete but also to empower them to sustain themselves and their families through their profession. “Let this initiative be a blessing from God for the betterment of football and our community,” he added.
N. Akok Longkumer, President of the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA), in his welcome address announced the formation of nine zonal units under the district. Speaking at the launch, Longkumer emphasized that the initiative is part of MDFA’s renewed focus on nurturing talent from the grassroots level, under the theme “Let’s go to the grassroots.”
He expressed gratitude to all individuals who contributed their knowledge and wisdom to make the initiative a reality, noting that the project was undertaken with careful planning and long-term vision.
Reflecting on MDFA’s journey, Longkumer recalled its establishment in 1992 with the mission to promote football in Mokokchung. He spoke about the transformative role football has played in shaping individuals and communities over the years. However, he also acknowledged that Mokokchung currently lags behind in the broader sports landscape of the region.
He cited the recent success of the”inaugural Nagaland Super League (NSL) as a source of encouragement, especially highlighting the performance of five Ao players—out of some from MDFA—who performed well in the league.
Longkumer stressed the importance of wider participation in platforms such as the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), where ideas and innovations can drive development.
“Our players were once ahead of the curve, but there is now a noticeable gap in progress, and they are not advancing as expected,” he said. “With this initiative, we aim to go deeper and create real, lasting change through football.”
He concluded by underlining the need for not just vision, but also knowledge, financial resources, and collaboration to sustain the effort. He extended appreciation to the Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly for his support towards the MDFA’s initiatives.
