Peren | 26 August
The Peren District Football League (PDFL) is grabbing eyeballs for its remarkable commitment to professionalism and has set a new benchmark for football in the state with its use of certified coaches.
Organized by the New Jalukie Super League (NSL) group under the aegis of the Peren District Football Association (PDFA), the PDFL features seven licensed coaches among its eight clubs, a rarity in local football circles. The league, which began on August 17, is being played between eight clubs at the New Jalukie Village Football Ground and will conclude on September 7, 2024.
Among the certified coaches are:
• Lavoriyi Theluo of Benreu FC (AFC B License)
• Kevingulie Hiekha of Nchamgram Lun FC (AFC C License)
• Khusi Haikube of Puiteng FC (AIFF D License)
• Luihengbe of Kingdom Stewards FC (AIFF D License)
• Letkhokai Kuki, aka Kakai, of Jalukie Falcons FC (AIFF D License)
• Perampauying Solo of NNYO FC (AIFF D License)
• Haileuyibe Irrangau of Lekie Mtei FC, coach cum player (AIFF D License)
Out of the eight coaches, Lelen Hangsing, of Kuki FC is the only coach who is yet to be certified. However, Hangsing is acting as a replacement for Hoatinmang Thompson (AFC C License), who couldn’t join the team due to being denied leave from his army duties.
Speaking about the league, Coach Kakai, in an interview with MT, said it has been competitive so far. “Even though it hasn’t ended yet, all the clubs are doing great and competing for the title.”
Expressing his opinion on whether the league is providing players with a platform, Coach Kakai said, “I don’t have much to say about the league helping players gain a platform, but I’m 100% sure that the players are progressing in the right way”.
Former Native Feathers coach Theluo and now coaching Benreu FC said that the competition is tougher than last year due to the inclusion of three guest players in all clubs.
It may be noted that the PDFL allows all clubs to have three guest players in the first 11 for the matches. He observed that the PDFL has improved significantly in terms of player development and the standard of the league.
“But to be very honest, the ground is worse than in the previous edition due to continuous rain and a half-muddy field,” added coach Theluo.
In an earlier interview with Mokokchung Times, PDFA President Raithu Newmai also acknowledged issues related to infrastructure and facilities for the teams and players.
“Despite numerous challenges, the PDFA has been actively working to provide good infrastructure and facilities for football in the district. Unfortunately, the astro turf ground at Jalukie Town is still incomplete and not yet functional. Consequently, the 1st Edition of the PDFL was played on a village ground. This year too, we have had to use the New Jalukie Village ground, incurring significant expenses for its maintenance and for setting up makeshift structures to ensure some level of comfort for the players. We are hopeful that the astro turf ground will be completed without further delay, allowing us to host the next PDFL there,” Newmai said.
However, coach Theluo acknowledged that despite challenges, the PDFL is experiencing significant growth and is playing a crucial role in the development of players. “I firmly believe that many emerging players are benefiting from this platform, providing them with opportunities to showcase their skills in various clubs across the state and even beyond. The positive impact of player development is evident in major state tournaments like the Inter-District Tournament and NSF, where the progress and talent of these players are shining through.”
Theluo lauded the PDFL’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a competitive environment.
Beyond its professional coaching, it can be assumed that PDFL is also paving the way for certified coaches to make their professional debut.
Additionally, the PDFL has also made headlines for hosting the first-ever player auction in Nagaland football history. Winamthiu Ringdi emerged as the highest bid, fetching Rs. 41,000 from the debutante club Nchamgram Lun FC. This record-breaking bid set a competitive tone for the auction. Trailing closely were Khiuwangbo of Jalukie Falcons FC and the promising young midfielder Irabeubo of Kingdom Stewards FC, each commanding significant bids.
The PDFL, now only in its second season, has shown promise and is positioning itself as a significant force in Nagaland’s football scene. The Peren District Football League stands as a witness to what can be achieved with dedication, professionalism, and community support. It is more than just a sports event; it is a symbol of the growing potential of local football in Nagaland.
As PDFA President Newmai had told MT, the community’s support is crucial to the success of the league. Their continued support will be essential as the league moves forward.