Chuchuyimlang, December 8, 2025 (www.nokinketer.in): The 14th Marsosang Football Trophy officially commenced on Monday at the Langpangkong Tsükong GHS Chuchuyimlang Playground, with Imsongmeren, NCS, Director of Nagaland State Lotteries, gracing the opening ceremony as the Special Guest.

In the welcome address, T. Temsu of the MFT Organizing Committee recalled that the tournament was first launched in 1994 by the family of late ex-MLA Tsukjemwati in honour of Marsosang, with the aim of encouraging youth through football. Since its inception, the Rocky Club has managed the tournament with the family’s support. Temsu reminded the participants that winning is not everything and emphasized discipline, sportsmanship, and meaningful participation.

According to compere Temsusenla Jamir, the Marsosang Trophy honours Marsosang’s contributions to community welfare and has grown into the district’s second-largest football event after the MDFA Trophy. Held biennially, it draws teams from across Mokokchung while fostering camaraderie and youth development. Past champions include the inaugural winners, Riongsanger Sporting Cup (1994), and N. Obang Memorial Football Team, the 2023 title holders.

This year, 11 teams are competing: Tongpangsanger Club, Vision Sporting Club, Rocky Club, Aroju Club, Team Saturday, Morung Boys United FC, Marsosang Sporting Club, Young Vision, Merasen, United Brothers, and N. Obang Memorial FT.

The tournament will culminate on December 13. Prize money includes ₹1.5 lakh for the champions, ₹1 lakh for the runners-up, and ₹10,000 for losing semi-finalists, along with individual awards and a best-disciplined team prize.

In his speech, the Special Guest praised the organizers for sustaining the tournament for 31 years and highlighted its importance as a platform for youth. Stressing discipline on and off the field, he expressed hope that players would eventually represent the district in larger tournaments such as the Dr. T. Ao Trophy.

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