“A barefoot barrier-breaker who is settled in the hearts of all”
A Contributor
REGIONAL, August 01, 2025: The Opening Ceremony of the 24th Inter-District Football Championship for the Dr T Ao Trophy 2025 held Friday at Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima with the Chief Minister of Nagaland Neiphiu Rio as the Special Guest. Rio in his speech stated that Dr Ao is the state’s most iconic son who captained India’s first Olympic football team in London after Independence in 1948.
He described him as a barefoot barrier-breaker who is settled in the hearts of all Nagas. His legacy inspires the youth to dream big, and with the available facilities and support, today’s youth can achieve success by dedicating themselves with sincerity, hard work, and perseverance.
Kevipodi Sophie, MLA & Convener of the Organising Committee for the 24th Dr T Ao Trophy, thanked the Special Guest Neiphiu Rio for his unwavering support and commitment to sports, particularly football, which continues to inspire young athletes across the state.
K Neibou Sekhose, President of the Nagaland Football Association, shared that on the suggestion of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, the Inter-District Football Championship was renamed the Dr T Ao Trophy in 2004 and the Northeast Fraternity Gold Cup became the Northeast Dr T Ao Trophy in 2009.
The tournament was approved by the AIFF and hosted by Nagaland in 2009 with State Government sponsorship continuing to this day.
The ceremony also featured the Unveiling and Presentation of the Trophy and Tournament Ball, and Cultural and Artistic Performances.
The first match was played between Kohima and Tseminyu. The event was organised by the Nagaland Football Association, hosted by the Kohima District Football Association and powered by the District Planning & Development Board, Kohima.
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