MLA and Advisor for Tribal Affairs and Election, Tovihoto Ayemi during the opening ceremony of the DDFL-cum-Late Hejeto Ayemi Football Trophy at DDSC Stadium, Dimapur on September 15. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Dimapur | September 15
Dimapur’s grassroots football scene received a fresh lease of life as the Dimapur District Football League-cum-Late Hejeto Ayemi Football Trophy kicked off at the DDSC Stadium, on September 15, backed by a 15-year sponsorship commitment.
Organised by the Dimapur District Football Association (DDFA), it marks the return of district league after a five-year long hiatus.
Inaugurating the league, MLA and Advisor Tovihoto Ayemi said that his family has partnered with the DDFA to sponsor the tournament annually for the next decade and a half.
“Starting today, in this year of 2026, our family has committed to a 15-year sponsorship agreement to run the league annually. For the next decade and a half, the tournament will stand as a permanent, reliable stepping stone for the youth of Nagaland,” Ayemi said.
Applauding the DDFA for taking the initiative to revive grassroots football, Ayemi urged the association to look beyond a single tournament and work toward establishing a self-sustaining football ecosystem complete with talent identification, quality coaching, and regular match exposure.
He also issued an appeal to all sections of society to throw their weight behind the youth. “Our young athletes need opportunities. They need platforms where they can compete, gain experience, develop their skills and build the confidence to dream bigger. Let us create an environment where a young footballer from Dimapur can dream of representing not only his district, but Nagaland and, one day, the country.”
Ayemi said that the league honours the memory and values of his late father, Hejeto Ayemi. Remembering him as a pioneering figure, Ayemi highlighted his father’s passion for social service and education, including running a free night school for underprivileged children. He added that the support for the league reflects the values espoused by his father— service, opportunity, community, and concern for the future generation.
Addressing the participating teams, the MLA urged the players to compete with passion, discipline, and mutual respect. “Football will have winners and losers, but every match makes you better players and better individuals. Respect your opponents, respect the officials, and uphold the true spirit of sportsmanship,” he advised before declaring the tournament officially open.
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