Brothers FC clinch ZSU Penalty Shootout title

Brothers FC (New Market) emerged champions of the 3rd Open Penalty Shootout organised by the Zhadima Students’ Union (ZSU), defeating Hamonhie (Meriema) in the final to claim the title. The tournament drew participation from 38 teams across Kohima district
The champions walked away with a cash prize of Rs 50,000, while the runners-up received Rs 30,000. Semi-finalists Mere Brothers (Zhadima) and Khaluba (Pezielietsie) were awarded Rs 5,000 each. Zakie of Brothers FC was adjudged the Best Goalkeeper, earning a cash prize of Rs 2,000.
Earlier, during the inaugural, Director of Youth Resources and Sports, Kethosituo Sekhose, graced the occasion as the special guest. In his address, Sekhose encouraged the youth of Nagaland to consider sports as a viable and rewarding career, observing that opportunities in the field have expanded significantly in recent years.
He remarked that while sports in earlier decades were often viewed merely as a hobby, it has now evolved into a lucrative profession. Citing the example of veteran coach Roko Angami of Zhadima village, who has dedicated over 25 years to coaching,
Acknowledging Zhadima’s record of producing distinguished personalities, Sekhose urged the community to continue identifying and nurturing emerging talent. He informed that the state government’s High-Level Task Force (HLTF) on sports, chaired by the Chief Minister, is formulating policies aimed at promoting sports and scouting grassroots talent.
Expressing concern that Nagaland has produced only two Olympians so far, Sekhose encouraged sports associations and local clubs to play an active role in developing future champions. He referred to Olympians Mirabai Chanu and Mary Kom from Manipur as examples of how rural athletes can reach the world stage through proper support and mentorship.
Sekhose also appealed to parents to take an active interest in their children’s sporting pursuits, including by attending their games and encouraging discipline and dedication. With India preparing its bid to host the Olympic Games,
He further suggested that traditional Naga practices such as Kikinyi—where villages host one another by sharing food and shelter—could be adapted to reduce costs and promote grassroots sporting initiatives. He added that the department has already initiated an inter-school volleyball league to strengthen youth engagement in sports.