KDFA partners with Sekhose family to institute premier football League

KOHIMA, JUL 8 (NPN): The Kohima District Football Association (KDFA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the family of Late Atuo Mezhür Sekhose to institute the Atuo Mezhür Sekhose Super League, a premier football competition designed to promote the sport while preserving the legacy of one of Nagaland’s most respected administrators. The signing ceremony took place at 2K Hotel, Kohima, marking a milestone in the district’s sporting history.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Lhouvizosier Mezhür Sekhose described the occasion as both a privilege and an honour. He expressed gratitude that his father’s name would be associated with an initiative dedicated to uniting communities, nurturing young footballers, and raising the standard of football in the district. He credited the KDFA Technical Director, who shared a close bond with his father, for helping bring the concept to fruition, and thanked KDFA leadership for their support.
Lhouvizosier recalled his father’s lifelong dedication to sports administration. While football was closest to his heart, Late Atuo Mezhür Sekhose also promoted table tennis, tennis, badminton, golf, motor racing, weightlifting, cricket, swimming and basketball. His passion for sports was matched by his commitment to building communities and fostering character. Quoting Bill Shankly’s famous remark that football is “much more serious” than life and death, he highlighted the game’s power to unite people and create lasting relationships.
He emphasised that the MoU was more than a legal agreement—it symbolised a shared commitment between the family and KDFA to support young athletes, promote sportsmanship, and invest in the future of football. By organising the Super League, the KDFA was preserving his father’s memory and ensuring his contributions would continue to inspire future generations. KDFA general secretary, Viliebeizo Liezietsu described the event as not just an agreement but a celebration of vision and legacy. He hailed Late Atuo Mezhür Sekhose as a mentor, statesman, visionary educator and pioneer who devoted his life to football development and earned recognition beyond Nagaland. Sekhose had served as president and general secretary of the Nagaland Football Association before becoming vice president of the All India Football Federation, leaving a lasting imprint on football at both state and national levels.
Liezietsu said KDFA believed the most meaningful tribute was to create opportunities that continued Sekhose’s work. He described the Super League as more than just another tournament—it would be KDFA’s premier competition, reflecting excellence, professionalism, discipline and sportsmanship. The league aims to improve standards through transparent competition, strengthen clubs with better organisation, provide pathways for talented players and inspire youth through discipline and respect.
The inaugural edition will feature eight teams in a single round robin format, with the top four advancing to the Champion’s Cup. As part of youth development, each team must field at least two Under 20 players in the starting eleven. Teams may register up to three guest players, though only two can play in a match. To ensure the league also serves as a lasting tribute, 20 per cent of match day ticket revenue will be contributed to the Atuo Mezhür Sekhose Trust Fund. Liezietsu also highlighted the historic football ties between Kohima and Tseminyu. Although Tseminyu is now a separate district, KDFA has allotted two slots to its clubs for the inaugural edition, strengthening unity and cooperation between the districts.
Liezietsu envisioned the league as a sustainable platform to nurture local talent and provide greater competitive exposure. He described the MoU as a covenant built on mutual respect and shared vision, thanking the Sekhose family for entrusting KDFA with carrying forward the legacy. He expressed hope that the competition would produce not only skilled footballers and administrators but also responsible citizens embodying Sekhose’s values of humility, teamwork, service, and excellence. Liezietsu concluded by saying the signing marked the beginning of a new chapter—one that honours the past while boldly embracing the future. The programme, chaired by KDFA press secretary Medolenuo Loucü, was attended by members of the Sekhose family and KDFA officials.