Kohima: The 21st NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy 2021 under the theme “Goal for Peace” began this evening at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima.
Manipur’s PHED, Printing & Stationery minister L. Dikho graced the inaugural function as the special guest.
In his address to the gathering, Dikho suggested that NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy should be converted into a national level sporting event. He called upon the Naga youth to give their best and excel in the field of sports.
Mentionably, Dikho represented Nagaland team in Subroto Cup in 1989 in which Nagaland lifted the trophy that year.
The inaugural function was chaired by ASU tribunal general Neizokhotuo Belho.
ASU president Bisevi Nakhro delivered the welcome address while organizing committee convenor Dievi Yano delivered the keynote address.
NSF president Kegwayhun Tep shared a solidarity message. Thejalhoukho Thomas Khawakhrie, secretary games & sports ASU administered oath to the participating teams.
In the inaugural match, Phesama Youth Organization defeated New Market FC 5-3. The tournament witnessed night matches.
Altogether 52 team registered in the match which will continue till 6 November.
The Trophy is organised in honour and in remembrance of the two comrades Lt. Kekuojalie Sachü of Kohima Village and Lt. Vikhozo Yhoshü of Kigwema Village, who were victims to the indiscriminate firings of the Armed Police from Alichen, when the students’ fraternity, on the 20th of march 1986, were on a peaceful duty call to the extension of Disturbed Area Belt from 5 KM along the Indo Myanmar Border and against the induction of Indian Police Service (IPS) cadres into the state of Nagaland.
In this edition, the champion will walk home with a cash prize of Rs. 2,00,000, runners up with Rs. The semifinalists and quarter finalists will get Rs 30,000 and Rs. 15,000 respectively.
Individual awards include Player of the tournament, Highest Scorer, Best Custodian, Best defender, Best midfielder.
Earlier, laying of wreaths & hoisting of flag was done at NSF Martyrs’ Park.