The Dr. T. Ao Junior Girls National Football Championship 2025–26 (Tier-2) concluded with a grand closing ceremony on 11th December, 2025 at the Chümoukedima Football Stadium, Police Complex, with Advisor for Youth Resources & Sports, S. Keoshu Yimchunger as the Chief Guest.
Yimchunger addressing the gathering expressed his deep appreciation for the remarkable coordination and commitment displayed by coaches, referees, volunteers, medical staff, and all individuals involved in ensuring the smooth conduct of the championship. He mentioned that championship, held over the past days, showcased extraordinary displays of talent, discipline, sportsmanship, and team spirit by young girls from various states and also noted that the tournament upheld the ideals of the legendary Dr. T. Ao, inspiring a new generation of young athletes across the country.
He commended the players for their passion, perseverance, and integrity, regardless of winning a trophy - had won hearts through hard work and dedication. He encouraged the participants, the bright future of women’s football in India, to continue dreaming big, training harder, and striving for excellence.
Also, reflecting on the unity displayed throughout the tournament, Yimkhiung noted that players from diverse states and cultures stood united by their shared love of football. The message underscored that true strength lies not only in victory but also in accepting defeat with grace. He extended warm gratitude to all teams and wished them a safe journey home and a call for the spirit of sportsmanship to continue guiding the young athletes in all their future endeavours.
Chairman of the Changki Village Council, Tsupongtsungba in his official appreciation note expressed deep gratitude to Neibu Sekhose, President of the Nagaland Football Association, and his team for their persistent efforts in successfully pursuing and securing the renaming of the Junior Girls’ National Football Championship to the "Dr. Talimeren Ao Junior Girls" National Football Champions".
The council stated that hosting a national-level championship named after the legendary Dr. T. Ao, a prominent figure from Nagaland is a proud moment for the community, especially as the 2025–26 seasons unfolds in the state. The note describes the honour as a “fitting tribute and a living testament to Dr. T Ao’s enduring legacy.”
The Village Council also extended sincere thanks to the State Government for their support. Special acknowledgment was given to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, for championing the initiative and ensuring its successful implementation and hosting. As the championship comes to a close, the Village Council celebrated not only the participating athletes but also the “spirit of Dr. T Ao that now guides this tournament.”
In the final match, the title clash featured Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, represented by WIFA and UPFS, where Maharashtra lifts the championship title by defeating Uttar Pradesh and took home the trophy. The final score stood Maharashtra with 4 goals and Uttar Pradesh with 1 goal.
(Tovikali, IA, Chumoukedima)
