A new chapter for grassroots football as Kichutip Sporting Association sets the stage for young players from across Nagaland to compete
In a first-of-its-kind initiative for grassroots football in Nagaland, the Kichutip Sporting Association (KSA), under the aegis of the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA), has announced the state’s inaugural Under-15 Futsal Tournament. The tournament is scheduled to take place from July 1 to 3, 2025, at the Mujabi Futsal Turf in Salangtem Ward, Mokokchung.
“This may well be the first of its kind in Nagaland,” said Tinukaba Longchar, Convenor of the Tournament Planning Committee, during a press conference held at Arok Salang, Kichutip Ward. He explained that the idea emerged during KSA’s Silver Jubilee celebrations in 2023 and that the timing aligns with summer holidays in most schools.
”We realized there are too many tournaments for youth and seniors, but very few structured events for school-going children,” Longchar added.
KSA President Imtichiba Kichu described the event as a “milestone” for the association. “Themed ‘Rise Up’, this tournament is envisioned as a platform to nurture young talent,” he said, adding that it will be the association’s first major grassroots event since its formation in 1998.
The 6-a-side tournament is open to teams from across Nagaland. Confirmed entries have been received from Dimapur, Mokokchung, Wokha, Kohima, and other districts. Players must be born on or after January 1, 2010. The registration fee is Rs 2000 per team, and the last date for registration is June 15, 2025.
A total prize pool of Rs 80,000 has been announced, including team and individual prizes.
The KSA intends to make this an annual running trophy, and if successful, plans are in place to launch an Under-13 Baby League in the near future.
Er Taliwapang, another member of the planning committee, said the tournament is part of KSA’s long-term vision for grassroots football and stems directly from its Silver Jubilee resolutions.
The tournament is sponsored by NI Enterprise and Longterok Football Club, with Nagaland Tribune as the official media partner. Other partners include HPCL, MKG Sports Store, Moalong Sounds & Lights, Dots & Lines, Kichu Towing, R&M Stay, and several local businesses.
Registration forms are available at:
· AOR Coffee (3rd Floor, MCCI Building, Arkong Ward)
· Fix Your Fixation (Arkong Ward, outside Yongpang Market)
· MKG Sports Store (Opposite MMC Shopping Mall, Dilong Ward)
· G-Sports (Next to The Magnus Hotel, Alongmen Ward)
For more information, interested teams can contact: +91 60090 33578 or +91 96151 15795.