NSL U-20 scholarship team flagged off for national training program

The Nagaland Super League (NSL) U-20 Scholarship team was officially flagged off on Tuesday from the Nagaland Olympic Association office in Sovima, marking a significant milestone in the state’s sporting landscape. The send-off programme launched the beginning of an elite training journey under the NSL Scholarship for U-20 initiative — a collaborative project spearheaded by the NSL, Nagaland Olympic Association (NOA), and Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), JSW.
The event opened with a solemn moment of silence in memory of late Atuo Mezhür, acknowledging his enduring contributions to sports and youth development. Pastor of CRC Sovima, Rev. Zhau Sanchu, led a special prayer, seeking blessings for the players and support staff.
The programme was attended by several dignitaries, including advisor to the chief minister and secretary general of NOA Abu Metha; chairman of NSL, Benei M. Lamthiu, MLA; vice president of NFA Mughato Aye; Kuputo Shohe and Neivikuolie Nicholas Khatsu of NOA. Commending the initiative, the dignitaries described the NSL Scholarship as a visionary move by chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio to elevate football in Nagaland and provide youth with national-level exposure. They emphasized its role in positioning Nagaland’s talent on the Indian football map.
The 16-player team, along with three support staff, will undergo a one-month, fully-sponsored high-performance training programme from June 8 to July 7. The programme is split into two phases:
Phase 1 (8–18 June): A 10-day pre-departure camp in Chümoukedima focusing on tactical readiness, physical fitness, and mental preparation, including a friendly match against SC Nagaland Thonburi United.
Phase 2 (18 June–7 July): A 20-day elite training program at IIS, Bellary — a premier privately-funded sports facility that has trained Olympic medallists like Neeraj Chopra, Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik. The team will also engage with Bengaluru FC’s academy through matches and mentorship opportunities.
The chief minister is expected to visit the IIS facility during the training period, demonstrating strong government backing for youth and sports development.
NSL U-20 Scholarship Team
Defenders: Nokwang Konyak, Kevisekho Miasalhou, Thejangulie Zatsu, Rovizo, Neingusalie Timothi Soliezuo, Hesaka V Chophi
Midfielders: Ato Chopi, Ketouselie Miasalhou, Mangkholen, Paotinsat Sitlhou
Forwards: Arap Konyak, Ngansang K Phom, Rokoselie Rhitso, Vinato Achumi
Goalkeepers: Changsomba Chang, Mengulhoukho Chalieu
Coaching Staff: Khogen Singh (Head Coach), Khwetelhi Thopi (Assistant Coach), Kechi (Assistant Coach)
The NSL Scholarship for U-20 represents a transformative step toward professionalizing football in Nagaland, providing young athletes with world-class exposure, professional coaching, and an inspiring path to success.