The Nagaland Men’s Blind Football Team displayed impressive skill and resilience at the 8th Men’s and 4th Women’s IBFF National Blind Football Championship, held from 16th-20th October 2024, at Nawu Sports Club, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune, informed the Nagaland State Disability in a press release.
The championship brought together over 130 athletes and officials from nine men’s and six women’s teams qualifying through zonal competitions across India, saw Delhi crowned champions after defeating Uttarakhand in a thrilling final in the men’s category.
Nagaland’s team performed admirably in the league rounds, securing draws against experienced teams from Gujarat and West Bengal.
Despite their strong efforts, they were unable to advance to the semifinals. Their participation in this national championship was made possible by the support of the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Directorate Social Welfare Department, Directorate of Youth Resources & Sports, Nagaland State Disability Forum (NSDF), all instrumental in encouraging the team’s presence in this event.
The team was led by Diethozo Yoho as head coach, Kezhaleto Zecho as assistant coach-cum-goal guide and Rongsenyanger as goalkeeper-cum-escort.
The experience of the Nagaland Blind Football Team, however, highlights the urgent need for stronger infrastructure and sustained support for parasports in the state. Unlike states such as Uttarakhand, Delhi, and Kerala—where government backing includes comprehensive support by providing infrastructure, training, and necessary equipment for national competitions—Nagaland’s athletes often face challenges due to limited resources and facilities.
Learning from these states, where coordinated support allows para-athletes to develop fully and compete at the highest levels, Nagaland has the opportunity to create a more inclusive sports environment that nurtures the potential of its para-athletes. Investment in dedicated training facilities, coaching and community outreach will be crucial to strengthening blind football and other parasports in Nagaland, empowering more para-athletes to participate and excel, it stated.
The inspiring participation of Nagaland Men’s Blind Football Team at the national level serves as a powerful reminder of the state’s potential to cultivate athletic talent among individuals with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive sports culture in India
