NAGALAND FOOTBALL ACADEMY, INTL GOLD CUP TOURNEY, SPORTS SCHOLARSHIPS
In a landmark move to revolutionize Nagaland’s sports infrastructure, Dr. chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio announced three major initiatives aimed at nurturing young talent and elevating the state’s sporting profile such as – the Nagaland Football Academy, Chief Minister’s Sports Scholarships, and the Nagaland International Gold Cup.
Football Academy: Speaking as special guest before the kick-off of the final match of the Nagaland Super League (NSL) here on Tuesday at a jam-packed Chümoukedima Football Stadium, Dr. Rio revealed that the state government will establish the Nagaland Football Academy, a professional training institution aimed at grooming young athletes.
The academy will be set up in collaboration with an internationally recognized football institution and will be based at Chümoukedima Football Stadium.
“This academy will identify and nurture talent while providing structured training, ensuring that young players have a pathway to professional football,” said Rio.
Sports Scholarships: The Chief Minister’s Sports Scholarships (CMSS) will provide financial assistance to promising athletes across various sports disciplines, with a strong focus on football. Selected athletes will be sent to top academies with full financial support from the Chief Minister’s Sports Fund.
The scholarship program will be implemented in partnership with the Nagaland Olympic Association (NOA), state sports associations, and national federations. Dr. Rio emphasized that the initiative aims to develop medal-winning athletes who can compete at national and international levels.
International Gold Cup: Dr. Rio also announced the Nagaland International Gold Cup, an ambitious international football tournament featuring four local teams, four national teams, and four international teams.
The tournament aims to give Nagaland’s players exposure on the national and global stage while preparing local clubs for the I-League.
“The state government will provide Rs 2 crore annually to teams that qualify for the I-League, ensuring they have the financial support needed to compete at the national level,” Rio added.
Reflecting on the success of the Nagaland Super League, Dr. Rio described it as a historic moment for football in Nagaland and an inspiration for young athletes.
He congratulated the Nagaland Olympic Association (NOA) and the Nagaland Football Association (NFA) for their dedication and vision in organizing the tournament.
“This league is more than just a competition—it is a movement and a celebration of football. I extend my gratitude to the All India Football Federation (AIFF), corporate sponsors, clubs, organizers, and fans who made this possible,” he said.
Rio also commended the finalists for their discipline and determination, calling both teams champions in their own right. He emphasized the need for grassroots development and assured that future NSL editions would be bigger and better. He also announced plans to construct a larger stadium to accommodate the growing number of spectators.
NSL a game-changer: Deputy chief minister Y. Patton, who also attended as an honored guest, said the NSL had significantly boosted football’s status in Nagaland.
“This league has captured the attention of fans across the state and beyond. The professionalism in its management has set a new benchmark for sports in Nagaland,” he stated.
Patton reaffirmed that the state government remains committed to promoting all sports disciplines under Dr. Rio’s leadership. He praised the players, coaches, and officials of the seven participating teams for their outstanding performances.
AIFF support: All India Football Federation (AIFF) Secretary General Anil Kumar P shared his excitement at witnessing Nagaland’s deep passion for football.
“The packed stadium is proof that football has a bright future in Nagaland. The AIFF is committed to supporting football development in the region,” he said, while thanking fans for their unwavering support.
Inspire Institute of Sport president Manisha Malhotra also commended the state’s growing sports culture. She emphasized that with the right support, Nagaland could become a powerhouse in Indian football.
“This is just the beginning. Initiatives like the NSL can turn local tournaments into national spectacles, bringing greater opportunities for young athletes,” she said.
The final match event, chaired by Imlisen Pongen, saw opening remarks delivered by Nagaland Olympic Association secretary general and Athletic Federation of India vice-president Abu Metha.
The occasion was graced by several dignitaries, including: Olympian and Arjuna Awardee Chekrovolü Swüro; Paralympic Bronze Medalist and Arjuna Awardee Hokato Hotozhe Sema besides Ministers, advisers, MLAs, and both deputy chief ministers.
Barak FC beat Longterok FC 3-1 to lift NSL title
Nagaland’s seasoned premier league team Football Club, beat ‘Dark Horse’ and nascent team Longterok Football Club with a convincing 3-1 win to lift the first Nagaland Super League(NSL)title at the Chumoukedima Football Stadium here Tuesday evening.
Tickets were sold out through online days ahead of the final. On Tuesday, thousands of football fans were seen queuing up by 12 noon to buy a few tickets for the match that was to be played at 7 p.m. (Read more on p-12)