Fifteen years after Kichutip’s last participation in a major football tournament, the community on Saturday came together to launch the Kichutip Sporting Association (KSA) Community Football League at Mojabi Futsal Turf, Salangtem.
The two-month league was formally kicked off by Kichutip MMC Councillor Imkumniba in the presence of community leaders, youth representatives, players and residents.
In his welcome address, KSA president Imtichiba said the league was aimed at promoting football while strengthening unity within the community. He also hope to have a well-known footballer from the ward, in days to come.
Speaking at the inaugural program, Talitoshi from Kichutip Ward Yimden, Kichutip Youth Association president Zulutemjen and MMC Councillor Imkumniba described the league as a significant step towards bringing the community together through sports. They expressed hope that KSA would work tirelessly throughout the duration of the league and build on the momentum created by the initiative.
The speakers also acknowledged the unity created through the league and thanked KSA for inviting the Kichutip Ward Council and Kichutip Youth Association to be part of the initiative.
Addressing the youth, Imkumniba urged them to remain focused and consistent and challenged KSA to take the association to “greater heights” in line with its motto.
The league features six teams, including four senior teams and two junior teams, with matches scheduled to be played on the second and fourth Saturdays.
The launch of the league marks another step in KSA’s efforts to revive football within the community. Following its hosting of Nagaland’s first U-15 Futsal Open Championship in 2025, KSA is also set to host the biennial championship again in 2027. Organizers said the community league is part of preparations to field two Kichutip teams for the 2027 championship.
Community members expressed hope that the initiative would not only strengthen social bonds but also help nurture a new generation of players capable of representing KSA in major tournaments in the future.