The 12th Edition of Nagaland Inter-District Veteran Football Tournament, hosted by the Peren District Veteran Football Association (PDVFA) kicked off at Mhainamtsi Village Ground, Jalukie under Peren on 11th February, 2025.
Speaking at the opening ceremony as the special guest, Advisor, Youth Resources & Sports, Nagaland, S. Keoshu Yimkhiung extended his warm appreciation to NVFA & PDVFA for organising the tournament and inviting him to grace the event. He encouraged the veterans not to target for championship title, but rather play to maintain good health. He also appealed them to never give up playing and continue to inspire youngsters in the field of sports. Further, Keoshu encouraged them to maintain team spirit while playing and advised them to go back and mould up the youngsters especially the under-age players in their respective districts by giving them proper training activities.
In his presidential address, K. Kire, IPS (DGP Retd.) & President NVFA said the main idea of organizing the tournament is to keep the veteran players fit as well as to encourage football among the younger generations. He also informed that only six (6) districts are participating in this year's edition and further hoped more districts to show up in the coming years.
Earlier, Arup Zeliang, Convenor, PDVFA delivered the welcome address, while Gaimunrei Gonmei, Pastor, RBCM offered the opening prayer. The event also featured cultural dance performed by women folks, while the theme song was presented by a singer and a song writer, Namkamlak.
In the inaugural match Mokokchung defeated Mon by two goals to nil. The tournament will conclude on 14th February 2025.
(Mamang IA, Peren)
