The Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA), in collaboration with Eden Academy, celebrated AFC Grassroots Football Day on May 23 under the continental theme “Football for the Goals.” The event was organized in response to the Nagaland Football Association’s (NFA) invitation, and as part of a nationwide observance led by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), aimed at promoting grassroots football while aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Addressing the occasion, MDFA President N Akok Longkumer noted that the event was being observed simultaneously across Asia and India, with every district in Nagaland participating under the aegis of the NFA. He remarked that Mokokchung was privileged to be part of this shared celebration. Highlighting the MDFA’s annual theme, “Football at the Grassroots,” he said the district association was committed to nurturing young talents and providing them the support they need to grow. He emphasized to the children the foundational role of grassroots in both sports and education and encouraged them to pursue football with dedication.
This year’s AFC Grassroots Football Day carries deeper significance with the theme “Football for the Goals,” promoting not only athletic development but also environmental awareness and social responsibility. The AIFF has aligned its efforts with this theme, focusing on how football can contribute to climate action and sustainability. In Mokokchung, the MDFA integrated messages such as “No to Single Use Plastic” into its celebration, reinforcing the role of sport in driving environmental change.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) marked the 12th edition of the Grassroots Football Day with participation from 42 member associations. This year’s event also coincided with FIFA’s World Football Week, allowing AFC members to contribute to global goals through local action.
The celebration in Mokokchung featured two engaging exhibition matches involving players between the ages of 6 and 12. The first match was played between students of Class 2 and Class 3, followed by a match between Class 7 and Class 8 students of Eden Academy. The young players, brimming with enthusiasm, embodied the spirit of grassroots development that the day seeks to promote.
Temsu Jamir, Administrator of Eden Academy, expressed appreciation to the MDFA for the initiative.