The path of DREAMS into REALITY: A GLIMPSE OF SALANGTEM YOUTH UNION

Mokokchung town is one of the districts here in Nagaland nestled on a serene hilltop. Here we don’t have enough facilities for sports and related activities as a whole in general. Only recently the enthusiasm in sports among the youth has picked up some pace and has garnered much interest. Seeing this condition, the Salangtem Youth Union, Mokokchung decided to nurture the upcoming generations in sports and other related fields. The SYU open futsal tournament was first conceptualized in 2022 with the aim to provide ample platform to the upcoming youngsters who have the potential and talent especially in the field of football.

Nurturing those talented youngsters was the main reason why this tournament was started in the first place. Nurturing youngsters in football is a multifaceted process that involves providing comprehensive support and guidance to young players as they develop their skills, both on and off the field. This concept is crucial for the long-term success of both individual players and the sport as a whole. Nurturing youngsters in football is about creating a supportive and nurturing environment that enables young players to realize their full potential as athletes and individuals. It requires a collaborative effort involving coaches, parents, administrators, and the wider football community to ensure that young talents are given the best possible chance to succeed and enjoy a fulfilling footballing journey.

Through fund raise and donations from well-wishers, all those dreams became a reality in the year 2023. The first SYU Open Futsal Tournament under the aegis of MDFA was launched in the year 2023 from 20-22nd June at Mojabi Futsal Turf, Salangtem ward under the theme “Focus to Endure.” The guest of honour for the event was Mr. Jamonger Ao, ADS F&CS, Mokokchung and Mr. Temjenmoa Jamir, Proprietor, Nagaland Minerals and Mines. The official partner for the tournament was Nagaland Minerals and Mines.

Altogether 31 teams from all over the Mokokchung district along with some teams from other districts also participated in the first edition of the tournament. The overall total prize money was Rs. 1,20,000/- along with a Running trophy. The champions for the first edition was Youngsters FC and the runners up was Trebuchet. The third place was bagged by Chargers FC.

There were also 5 individual prizes for 5 different categories: Highest goal scorer (Mr. Abu Chishi), Best defender (Mr. Limawapang), Best goalkeeper (Mr. Horland), Best striker (Mr. Alapou) and Most promising player (Mr. Sentilong).

This year also with the same motivation and dreams, the 2nd SYU Open Futsal Tournament is scheduled to be held from 26-28 March 2024. Already immense preparations are underway for this upcoming event.

Issued by:
Salangtem Youth Union