The Elite Club Mokokchung is organizing the 35+ Open Football Tournament 2024, to be held from December 16 to 18 at the Senayangba Government School Ground in Ungma. This unique tournament has brought together six teams, offering a platform for football enthusiasts aged 35 and above to showcase their passion for the sport.
The event began with an invocation by Ayangba Longkumer, Youth Director, followed by a welcome and felicitation speech by an Elite Club representative. An exhortation was delivered by Imkongwati Longkumer Tatar, and the program also featured a special performance by Tiajungla T Jamir.
Vesupra Kezo, Superintendent of Police, Mokokchung, graced the occasion as Guest of Honor. In his address, he commended the Elite Club for organizing the tournament despite the challenges inherent in hosting such events. Highlighting the scarcity of tournaments specifically for players aged 35 and above, he expressed his personal appreciation, noting that in football terms, 35 plus might be considered old; there may not be much scope to progress at this age, but it is still a passion for many.
He acknowledged Mokokchung’s unwavering enthusiasm for football and praised the older generation for continuing to participate in events such as the MDFA and Futsal tournaments. He urged the elders to inspire the younger generation to play more, emphasizing the importance of nurturing a love for football in the youth.
“It is our duty to support the growth of football in our region so we can produce great players who will go on to do great things,” he said. He also spoke about the lack of proper coaching infrastructure in the region and its impact on the development of young players, highlighting the need for skilled coaches to mentor budding talents.
Looking ahead, he remarked on the potential growth of football in the state with the upcoming Nagaland Super League (NSL), stating, “With the start of the NSL on the horizon, football is expected to grow even more in the state. And it is our duty to support.”
The tournament features six teams divided into two pools: Pool A includes Elite Seniors FC, Salukum Seniors FC, and New Ecclesia FC, while Pool B consists of Trebuchet FC, Revenant FC, and Terokroker FC.