CHANDEL: In a proud moment for the football fraternity of Manipur, and particularly for Chandel district, Th. Joyshing Monsang, the lone AIFF Elite National Referee from Manipur, has been conferred the prestigious Oja Benudhar Memorial Trophy, awarded annually to the Best Referee of the Year in Manipur.
The award was presented during the closing ceremony of the 65th C.C. Meet 2025–26, organized by the All Manipur Football Association. Along with the coveted trophy, Joyshing received a cash prize of ₹5,000. The award is sponsored by the family members of the late Chongtham Benudhar Singh in recognition of outstanding excellence, professionalism, and dedication in football refereeing.
Hailing from Japhou Bazar, Chandel district, Joyshing is the son of late Th. Angpatin Monsang and Ts. Sharmila Monsang. He began his refereeing journey in 2015 and steadily rose through the ranks through hard work and perseverance. After successfully clearing the National Referee Examination in 2019, he earned recognition as an AIFF National Elite Referee in 2022.
Over the years, Joyshing has officiated in several prestigious national and international tournaments. His notable assignments include I-League 2 and I-League 3, AFC Youth Tournaments held in Tajikistan and Malaysia, the Dr. T. Ao North East International Football Championship, the Santosh Trophy, and the renowned NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy, among others.
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Apart from his accomplishments on the field, Joyshing has remained an active and dedicated member of the District Sports Association Chandel, contributing significantly to the growth and promotion of football in the district. His success story stands as a testament to dedication, discipline, and excellence, inspiring aspiring referees and young sportspersons across Chandel and Manipur.
The recognition not only celebrates Joyshing’s personal achievements but also brings immense pride to the people of Chandel, highlighting the district’s growing contribution to the sporting landscape of the state and beyond.
