The Nagaland Football Association organized its first ever Referees’ Conclave with FIFA Referees at Hotel Vivor Kohima on August 14
The event was graced by special guests, Richlang Dhar (FIFA Assistant Referee), Debala Devi Elangbam (FIFA Assistant Referee) and Ranjita Devi Tekcham (FIFA Referee).
Kethosituo Sekhose, Director, Youth Resources & Sports, Nagaland in his exhortation stated that football has been played in the country for over 100 years and the country had sent its first team to the Olympics headed by Dr T Ao and in whose name today we organize Dr T Ao Inter district Tournament.
On behalf of YRS department, he expressed gratitude to Nagaland Football Association ( NFA) led by its president for putting their case to All Indian Football Federation to name Junior Girls National tournament into Dr T Ao Junior National Girls Tournament.
Director also highlighted that in the name of Dr T Ao they had been organizing various functions. He added that the Government is also committed to promoting this beautiful game of football. He said that the love for football in the state is going to change the economy in many ways.
Kethosituo Sekhose mentioned that similar to coaches, referees play a very vital role in ensuring that the game goes well. He said that referees play a very important role in ensuring that the game is loved by the people.
Sharing his own experience, the Director said that whether it is a good team or not the spectators watch not only the players but even the referees the way they officiate. Applauding the FIFA Referees on how they officiated the 2nd semi final on August 13 at IG Stadium, he mentioned that people were commenting that the players are playing better, with better coordination in the ground. But in actual it is the referees who actually changed the nature of the game.
“When referees are not good it is always disheartening to watch a match,” he added.
Impressing upon all the referees present, the Director emphasized that it is the referees role that “we look forward to in every match”. He stated that a good referee makes the match more beautiful and strong.
“The role of referee goes beyond the ground . Referee plays an important role in ensuring amendments are brought to the game .Even employment opportunities as referees is also very high,” he cited .
K Neibou Sekhose, President, Nagaland Football Association, in his introductory remarks, highlighted that with the start of this new chapter the federation is fortunate to have the best referees of the country in Nagaland Kohima.
Giving out advice to all colleagues and referees representing from all the districts of Nagaland, Sekhose urged them to believe in themselves and their abilities.
“Every great referee starts somewhere, keep working hard , enjoy the game , learn from mistakes. Your dedication and patience will take you far,” Sekhose said . He also urged the participants to not be afraid to challenge new things but celebrate success and do learn from mistakes.
Encouraging the Referees, Sekhose mentioned that they are a part of the team and to work together towards victory.
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FIFA referees also shared their thoughts on “Role & Importance of Referees’ after which they had an interactive session.
Earlier during the event , Chenonio Woch, Joint Secretary, Nagaland Football Association chaired the program while Rev. Atuo Whuorie Pastor, Baptist Mission Church pronounced a prayer. Words of gratitude & closing remarks was delivered by Kiyeka S Sumi Sr. Vice President, NFA.
