In alignment with the directives of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA), in collaboration with Eden Academy, celebrated the AFC Grassroots Football Day on May 23, 2025, under the global theme “Football for Goals.” Two exhibition matches were played by players aged between 6 and 12 years. The first match was between Class 2 and Class 3 students, while the second match featured players from Class 7 and Class 8.
Addressing the gathering, Akok LKR, President of MDFA, remarked that Grassroots Football Day is being observed across Asia and India, and with directives from the NFA, every district in Nagaland is taking part in the celebration. He expressed that Mokokchung is fortunate to be part of this collective effort, emphasizing that this year’s MDFA theme is “Football at the Grassroots.” LKR noted that various programs are being organized in alignment with this theme and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to mark the occasion. Speaking to the young players, he stressed the importance of grassroots—whether in education or sports—and encouraged them to nurture their football talents from an early stage. He also assured that MDFA is committed to supporting young talents and that the office is always open for assistance.
The Initiative aligns with the broader goals of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), which focus is not only on the growth and development of grassroots football, but also on how football can contribute to climate action and sustainable development under the theme, “Football for the Goals”. Through this celebration, the AIFF aims to promote environmental awareness and encourage the football community to take a step forward towards a greener future along with football activities
The event was marked by engaging football activities at the grassroots level, with MDFA incorporating key messages such as “No to Single Use Plastic” as part of its campaign. Logos and messaging promoting AFC Grassroots Football, World Football Day, and the UN-supported “Football for the Goals” initiative were prominently featured throughout the program.
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The Nagaland Football Association, through a press release dated May 20, 2025, had invited all district FAs, schools, football clubs, and academies to join the national celebration. The NFA emphasized that this year’s focus is on how football can be a vehicle for positive environmental and social change, encouraging all stakeholders to contribute towards a greener and more inclusive future. Participating entities were also encouraged to document their events and share visuals and outcomes to support the national-level documentation and impact assessment.
Temsu Jamir, Administrator of Eden Academy, speaking to NT, applauded MDFA’s initiative of observing the “AFC Grassroots Football Day” in collaboration with Eden Academy. Envisioning future development, Jamir expressed his commitment to supporting students in nurturing their skills and talents from an early stage, especially when organizations like MDFA are willing to provide consistent support. Reflecting on last year’s efforts, he mentioned that student-players from Eden Academy were sent for trials at the Subroto Cup and affirmed that the Academy remains dedicated to grooming skilled players and creating more opportunities for them in the years ahead.
