Inaugural Kick-off of the HAOFUREVER ‘Northeast Sam-Yang Football League Tournament’ in Goa

The first edition of the HAOFUREVER ‘Northeast Sam-Yang Football League Tournament’, organized by the Tangkhul Welfare Union, Goa, was officially inaugurated on March 4, 2025, at the NFA Nagoa Futsal Arena, Nagva, Saligao, Goa. The 7v7 football event witnessed a vibrant atmosphere as football enthusiasts, players, and community members gathered to celebrate the beginning of the two-month-long tournament, which aims to promote unity, sportsmanship, and camaraderie among the Northeast communities residing in Goa. The tournament promises to be a thrilling spectacle for football fans in Goa. The initiative not only serves as a platform for showcasing football talent but also strengthens the bonds within the Northeast communities.

The inaugural program commenced with Mr. Wungraizan Haoshimwung as the compère. The Chief Guest, Mr. Ricardo Cardoza, owner of NFA Nagoa Futsal Arena and a former professional footballer, graced the occasion with his presence. Mr. Cardoza has competed in the ISL with teams such as Bengaluru FC, Mumbai City FC, and Churchill Brothers. He has also played in the I-League with teams such as Dempo SC, Sporting Clube de Goa, and Mohun Bagan. In his address, Mr. Cardoza applauded the initiative to bring together diverse communities through football and expressed his enthusiasm for the tournament’s potential to unearth new talents. He also highlighted the spirit of unity and competition that the tournament seeks to embody.

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Mr. Leiyapam Awungshi delivered a concise briefing on the tournament’s rules and regulations, ensuring clarity and fair play for all participating teams. The event also featured the introduction of event partners, followed by a presentation segment that showcased the tournament’s objectives and the efforts behind organizing such a community event. The Chief Guest then initiated the ceremonial kick-off, officially marking the start of the tournament. The first match was contested between Goa Manipuri Meitei Association FC (GMMA) and SNIP United FC, with GMMA FC emerging victorious with a scoreline of 7-5. Premjit Meitei of GMMA was named the ‘Player of the Match’. In the second match, Kuki FC faced Nagaland FC, where Kuki FC secured a win with a score of 12-5. Jojob Singsit of Kuki FC was awarded the ‘Player of the Match’.

Tournament Highlights:

Match Schedule: Every Tuesday, 10:00 pm to 12:00 am, from March 4, 2025, to May 13, 2025.

Prizes:

• Winner: Trophy + ₹30,000
• Runners-up: ₹10,000
• Awards for Best Player, Best Defender, Best Goalkeeper of the tournament and Player of the Match for every match.

Participating Teams:

• Goa Manipuri Meitei Association FC
• SNIP United FC
• Nagaland FC
• Kuki FC
• One Target FC
• Unbreakable FC
• Kuki Young Blood FC

Event Partners:

• SPARADDISE Salon and Spa
• Little North East Café
• AX Style, Hair and Beauty Unisex Salon
• North East Hair & Beauty Salon, Exclusive for Ladies
• Home Sweet Home, North East Organic Shop
• Chui Nails: Nail Salon and Academy
• HAOFUREVER Pet Spa and Store

Organizing Committee:

• Dr. Horthing V. Zimik (Convenor)
• Mr. Mayonsing A. Chihui (Co-Convenor)
• Mr. Leiyapam Awungshi (Co-Convenor)
• Mr. Sochanphy Chithung (Secretary)
• Ms. Leah Vashim (Media and Public Relations Officer)
• Mr. Thanshok Keishing (Match Coordinator)
• Mr. Mayopam Rumthao (Match Coordinator)
• Mr. Ramreingam Shatsang (Match Coordinator)

The tournament is set to be an exciting journey of football excellence, community spirit, and cultural unity, embodying the theme: “Victory Through Unity.”

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