The Dr. T. Ao Junior Girls National Football Championship 2025–26 (Tier–2) was officially inaugurated on 22 November 2025 at Chümoukedima Football Stadium. The inaugural ceremony began with an invocation by Nini Sekhose, Pastor of Garden Mission Church, Sovima. Nagaland Chief Minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio graced the event as the Special Guest. He stated that this is a momentous occasion, not only because it marks the first time Nagaland is hosting a National Football tournament, but because it celebrates the unity, strength and spirit of Indian sports through the participation of talented young players from across the nation. He said that the championship honoured Dr. Talimeren Ao, India's first football captain at the 1948 London Olympics, who rose from humble beginnings to lead an independent India on the world stage. He added that by renaming of the Junior National Football Championship in his honor is a recognition of his legacy, made possible by the commitment and dedication of the State Government and the Nagaland Football Association.
He highlighted that beyond its symbolic significance, the Championship stands as a celebration of the remarkable progress of women’s football in India. He noted that the growing strength, determination and confidence of young women athletes reflect a promising future for Indian sports. Their participation, he said, serves as a powerful reminder of the nation’s advancement toward equality, opportunity and empowerment.
He further stated that as India moves toward the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, sports will continue to play a crucial role in uniting people and shaping the country’s collective identity and that sports instills values such as teamwork, perseverance and discipline—qualities that rise above differences of region, language and culture, and strengthen the nation as one. Dr. Rio said that Nagaland views this as an opportunity to foster sporting excellence, develop infrastructure, and contribute to Indian sports, hoping it will attract more national and international events in the future.
Emphasising the larger purpose of the event, He said that the championship is far more than a competition but a platform of opportunity where dreams take shape, friendships are formed and future champions emerge. Every match, he said, tells a story of resilience, determination and the limitless potential of India’s youth.
He expressed deep appreciation to the All India Football Federation for entrusting Nagaland with the honour of hosting the prestigious national championship. He said that as the tournament begins, it is an opportunity to celebrate not only the game of football but also the spirit of a diverse and vibrant India full of promise. Concluding his address, He said the championship should stand as a celebration of skill, friendship and the limitless potential of India’s youth. He also expressed hope that the legacy of Dr. Talimeren Ao would continue to guide and inspire players both on and beyond the field.
Advisor for Youth Resources & Sports, S. Keoshu Yimkhiung, in his address
welcomed all the participating teams, officials and dignitaries to the Dr. T. Ao Junior Girls National Football Championship 2025–26 at Chümoukedima Football Stadium. The championship, held in honour of Dr. Talimeren Ao—Nagaland’s legendary footballer and independent India’s first national team captain—was highlighted as a celebration of his legacy of discipline and sportsmanship.
Emphasising the unifying power of football, he noted that the tournament is not just a competition but a platform for young girls to showcase their talent, teamwork and passion for women’s sports at the national level. Participants were encouraged to play with discipline, respect and determination, valuing participation and learning as much as winning. He concluded his speech by expressing hope that the event would inspire more young girls to dream big and pursue excellence in sports.
President of the Nagaland Football Association, K. Neibou Sekhose thanked the All India Football Federation for honouring Dr. T Ao and for choosing Nagaland to host this event. He also expressed his gratitude on behalf of the Nagaland Football Association to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio for his constant support and leadership for promoting sports, particularly football in the State. He encouraged the young players to inculcate the spirit of sportsmanship, teamwork and fair play. Following this, the 13 participating teams were introduced, the flags were hoisted and the National Anthem was played, marking the formal opening of the Championship. The inaugural program was chaired by Commissioner & Secretary of the Department of Youth Resources & Sports, Anthony Ngullie, NCS. The opening matches of the tournament were played between Andaman & Nicobar and Punjab, and between Nagaland and Uttarakhand.
(Samuel, IA Chumoukedima)
