Tuensang is gearing up to host the prestigious 23rd Dr T Ao Inter-District Tournament, scheduled to take place from 17 to 27 September 2024 at Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground, Tuensang.
The tournament will be hosted by the Tuensang District Football Association (TDFA) and organized by the Nagaland Football Association (NFA). Preparations for the state-level football tournament are in full swing, according to a source from the Tuensang FA. The source added that they expect at least 15 districts to compete for the coveted title. Dimapur district is the defending champion of the 22nd edition, while Mon district were the runners-up in the tournament held in Mokokchung in 2022.
This time, the state FA is introducing the Central Registration System (CRS) for all players participating in the competition. This is the first step the association has taken to seek recognition of the tournament by the All India Football Federation. The NFA, in a statement, said all district teams must ensure their players are registered under the CRS.
As for the district coaches, the NFA has set a standard, asking each district to depute a certified AFC ‘C’ coach. In the absence of an AFC ‘C’ coach, a certified AIFF ‘D’ holder may be considered, said the state association.
The draw of fixtures is expected to be held on August 30 at 1:00 pm at the office of the Nagaland Olympic Association, Kohima.
Mokokchung gearing up
Meanwhile, the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) has said that it is preparing for the 23rd Dr T Ao Inter-District Tournament. MDFA president Akok Longkumer told MT that a selection committee is working on the team which will be announced soon. He also said that the MDFA has no problem in meeting the NFA directive of deputing a certified coach.
Further, the MDFA president also said that the MDFA Trophy 2024 would be held after the Dr T Ao tournament in Tuensang.
MT