Correspondent
KOHIMA, MAY 13 (NPN): The Kohima Red Tigresses emerged champions of the 2nd Nagaland Women Futsal League, held from May 11–13 at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima. The tournament was organised by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports, Government of Nagaland, in collaboration with the Nagaland Football Association (NFA).
The champions Kohima Red Tigresses received a cash prize of Rs. 60,000, while the runners-up United Girls Kohima, third SC Nagaland and fourth placed team Football Plus Kohima received Rs. 50,000, Rs. 40,000, and Rs. 20,000 respectively. Individual awardees were presented with Rs. 5,000 each and the Best Discipline Team Brave Cubs Kohima received Rs. 10,000.
In the individual awards, Best Player was bagged by Zemloi Konyak (Kohima Red Tigresses); Most Valuable Player by Rokothono (United Girls Kohima); Best Goalkeeper by Kevipfhenuo Semou (Red Tigresses); and Highest Scorer by Diezechünuo (SC Nagaland).
Secretary to the Government of Nagaland, Youth Resources and Sports Department, Anthony Ngullie, attended the programme as the special guest. In his address, he highlighted the participation of eight teams this year and described the semi-final matches as “exciting,” noting that players thoroughly enjoyed the competition. He expressed hope that more teams and girls would take up futsal professionally in the coming years, stressing that the sport demands stamina, strength and ball control. Ngullie added that with dedication and hard work, Nagaland’s women players could excel at larger platforms.
He also spoke about the government’s efforts to expand sports infrastructure across the state, citing the establishment of futsal grounds and multipurpose prefab halls at district and subdivision levels. Plans are underway to extend such facilities to grassroots areas and villages, encouraging sports-loving communities. Ngullie emphasized the government’s commitment under the leadership of the chief minister to promote sports and ensure better facilities for all.
Addressing the role of women in society, Ngullie said “women power” is beyond explanation and stressed the need to celebrate and support women despite societal challenges.
The programme was chaired by Director of the Youth Resources and Sports Department, Kethosituo Sekhose, who congratulated all participating teams, stating that every team was a winner for competing at the state level. He remarked that futsal, though often seen as a small game, has the potential to gain worldwide popularity due to its strict time format, which appeals to broadcasters. Sekhose further informed that multipurpose indoor halls are being constructed across Nagaland, which will benefit youth interested in sports.
The tournament report was presented by Nyuvitho Nyuthe, while the thanksgiving prayer by Khriehutuo Tsira of the Youth Resources and Sports Department.