The Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) on August 16 held the ceremonial flag blessing for the Dr T Ao Trophy 2026 at the MDFA Office, District Youth Hostel, Mokokchung.

The tournament flag was handed over to N Akok Longkumer, President of MDFA, and the flag blessing was pronounced by Rev Ngangen Longkumer, Pastor of Alempang Baptist Church.

It also marked the flag-off programme for the preparation of next year’s edition.

Imkongsunep, former General Secretary of MDFA, in his brief exhortation, congratulated the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) and the team for reaching the semi-finals at the recent Dr. T Ao Trophy Tournament, while also lauding team player Sentilong for winning the Best Midfielder Award.

He highlighted that after hosting the Dr T Ao Trophy in 2022, Mokokchung has now been given the golden opportunity to host the 25th Silver Jubilee edition of the prestigious tournament in 2026. Appreciating the MDFA office bearers for their initiative, he stressed that while management will be challenging, unity and collective effort can make the event successful.

Stating that Mokokchung was once known as the “Football Capital of Nagaland,” he acknowledged the district’s present shortcomings but urged the MDFA to revive its legacy by strengthening team management, technical performance, and overall strategy. He emphasized the importance of encouraging those with technical expertise and maintaining a vision for progress.

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On financial challenges, he proposed a “one player–one guardian mentorship model,” where individual guardians could take responsibility for the expenses of each player. Regarding preparations, he hoped for timely development of the Rempukong Ground and its gallery infrastructure, and also proposed instituting a new tournament trophy to mark the Silver Jubilee edition.

He expressed hope that with collective responsibility and commitment, Mokokchung would host the 25th edition successfully.

Sentilong Longkumer Jersey number 19 of MDDA team felicitated by MDFA for achieving

Best Midfielder award in the 24th Dr T Ao Football Tournament

Highlight of the occasion was the felicitation of Sentilong, who was conferred the Best Mid-Fielder Award at the Dr T Ao Trophy 2025. MDFA acknowledged his achievement as a source of pride and inspiration for aspiring footballers in the district.