The first-ever 35+ MFL Vision League, an Under-13 football league organized by the 35+ Mokokchung Football League (MFL) under the aegis of the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) and powered by Longterok Football Club, kicked off at Mojabi Football Turf, Mokokchung, on December 6.
Assistant Commissioner Ajay Moktan, IAS, graced the opening ceremony and highlighted the importance of sports in building discipline, teamwork, and resilience among children. MDFA Vice President Bendangnukshi encouraged the young players to learn, grow, and use their skills for the betterment of society, expressing confidence that the Vision League will inspire new football philosophies.
Senior Superintendent of Police Vesupra Kezo, NPS, urged participants to seize the opportunity, remain disciplined, and not be discouraged by setbacks. He stated that “tomorrow’s football stars are being made here.”
The program was chaired by Er. Imtiyanger Imchen, with an invocation by Imliwapang, Pastor, Christ Church, and a welcome note by Tiakumzuk, Convenor of the league.
Altogether, six teams comprising players aged between eight and thirteen are participating. The teams are mentored and guided by the six teams of the 35+ MFL.
It may be recalled that the 35+ MFL had earlier conducted a Grassroots Coaching Clinic at Mojabi Futsal Turf in June. The five-day clinic was attended by 125 young players. It aimed to provide technical training and instill footballing discipline among budding enthusiasts.
This initiative has been a long-cherished vision of the 35+ MFL organizers, who sought to go beyond fellowship and football toward nurturing young talents and developing future football lovers. The league is expected to offer a platform for young players to showcase their skills in a structured setting, bridging the gap between training and competition.
About the 35+ MFL Vision League
The 35+ MFL Vision League, dedicated to players under thirteen years of age, aims to nurture young football talent in Mokokchung. Convenor Tiakumzuk said the league fulfills a long-cherished dream of introducing structured football for the young feet in Mokokchung.
The league will feature six clubs, namely Rising Phoenix FC, Speedy Cheetahs, Mini Marvels, Tenacious Titans, Daring Dolphins, and Agile Avengers, competing in a seven-a-side format. Most of the young players will be drawn from the participants of the U-13 football coaching clinic jointly organized by 35+ MFL in June 2025 under the guidance of Barak FC Head Coach Brando.