FC Banaras Baghpat has appointed Kivilu Kiba from Nagaland as its assistant coach ahead of the club’s debut season in the Indian Football League 3 (I-League 3).
Kiba previously coached U-20 Men’s National Football Championship (NCF) 2025 as well as Niuland FC in the Dr T Ao Trophy 2025, leading the team to a second-place finish.
Holding a degree in Physical Education (BPE and BPEd), Kiba has also completed a one-year high-intensity Diploma in Sports Coaching from NSNIS SAI, Kolkata. He is a qualified AIFF ‘D’ License and AFC ‘C’ License holder, and has additional credentials in athletics, including the District Technical Official course.
Speaking to MT, Kiba said he is looking forward to make an impact and encourage young players from Nagaland to showcase their talent beyond the state. He confirmed that he would be taking some promising Nagaland players with him to FC Banaras.
Kiba noted that many talented players in Nagaland are often hesitant to take football as a career. He urged them to play every match with pride, no matter the stage, tournament, or reward.
“In football, there are no small games, only chances to grow, prove yourself, and rise.”
Addressing aspiring footballers, Kiba said, “To future Naga footballers, I just want to say, work hard, stay disciplined, and take every opportunity seriously. Talent alone isn’t enough; play every match with pride and use every game to grow and prove yourself.”
Kiba will join the coaching staff as FC Banaras prepares to compete on the national stage. The club’s head coach is Vivek Singh.
The I-League 3, formerly known as I-League 3, is the fourth tier of Indian men’s professional football. It features 25 clubs, selected based on their performance in state leagues.
In an official post on Instagram, FC Banaras described their debut entry as the start of a “historic chapter” for the club.
