Anticipation is building across Nagaland as the prestigious Dr. T. Ao Trophy returns from August 1 to 15, 2025, at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima. The tournament, one of the biggest football events in the state, is being hosted by the Kohima District Football Association and organized by the Nagaland Football Association (NFA). It is powered by the District Planning and Development Board, Kohima, and supported by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports, Government of Nagaland.
With just two days to go, the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) today unveiled its official team jersey at a short ceremony held on Wednesday, July 30. The event included a dedicatory prayer by MTBA Pastor Yanglu, and was graced by SDO (Civil) Temsuchuba.
Speaking to Mokokchung Times, MDFA President N Akok Longkumer said this year’s jersey draws inspiration from the traditional Ao shawl, symbolizing both identity and pride.
The Mokokchung team will depart for Kohima tomorrow at 7:45 AM, following a brief flag-off program.
When asked about Mokokchung’s preparations and expectations this year, Longkumer was candid yet hopeful. “We’re expecting a lot this year,” he said. “But we have a young team, with players between 18 and 26 years. Our long-term goal is to nurture them. Maybe we won’t win now, but in five to six years, as they gain experience, we hope to bring the trophy home.”
When asked how the MDFA’s Zonal Association Program under the theme “Football at the Grassroots” shaped the team selection, Longkumer said the focus was entirely on nurturing young talent through long-term exposure.
“It has helped us a lot,” he said. “In Nagaland, the Nagaland Super League is the best platform, so we’ve selected young players from grassroots programs in such a way that they not only play in the Dr T Ao Trophy but also gain experience that will help them grow through the league system. The idea is to let them learn, improve, and eventually excel as they mature.”
He added that MDFA has made significant investments in grassroots football with a long-term vision of building a strong talent pipeline for the district.
The Mokokchung squad has been under the guidance of AIFF ‘D’ license-certified coaches Rongsennungba and R Achi, who has led the team through a dedicated two-month coaching camp.
“The players have been disciplined,” Longkumer remarked. “We’ve taken care of their food requirements, while lodging has been arranged at the District Youth Resource Centre on a paid basis.”
As the countdown to the tournament begins, all eyes are now on Mokokchung’s young squad as they carry the district’s hopes to Kohima.
Kohima unveils its kit
Meanwhile in Kohima, MLA Kevipodi Sophie, who is also the Convener of the Organising Committee for the 24th edition of the tournament, unveiled the KDFA team jersey at the Indira Gandhi Stadium on Wednesday.
Encouraging the Kohima squad, Sophie urged players to “strive for excellence” and bring pride to the district.
“Give your best on the field and make Kohima proud,” he said, wishing the team success in the championship.
The jersey launch was attended by MLA and Co-Convener Dr Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, Deputy Commissioner of Kohima B Henok Buchem, SP Kohima Teisovise Metha, NFA President Neibou K Sekhose, along with organizing committee members, KDFA officials, and players. The ceremony began with a prayer led by KDFA executive member Pudil Tsükrü.
A trophy of legacy
Named in honour of Dr Talimeren Ao—India’s first Olympic football captain and an icon of Naga sports—the Dr T Ao Trophy remains one of the most prestigious inter-district football tournaments in Nagaland, celebrating both competition and legacy.
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