Grassroots level crucial for professional sports development in Nagaland: Colo Mero

Morung Express News
Patkai | February 29

Professional sports are at a nascent stage in Nagaland, and to propel their development, all stakeholders must come together and do their bits right from the grassroots level, asserted, Colo Mero Director of Life Ministries and Vice President of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA) on Thursday.  

Addressing as the chief guest at the inaugural day of the 2nd Patkai Trophy (Golden Jubilee Edition) commenced at Patkai Christian College (Autonomous) on February 29, he highlighted on its importance saying 80% of the world’s population are said to be interested in sports.

Further stressing on grassroots development,  Mero noted: “We spend lakhs and crores for sports events, very generous but fail or do only little for grassroots development.” Training and coaching the keys to professional sports development, he added.

The NFA Vice President highlighted the importance of events like the Patkai Trophy for fostering friendship, unity, and fellowship. 

However, he expressed that such events have minimal value concerning professional sports, reiterating his insistence on grassroots development. 

To this end, as a Patkai alumnus, Mero observed that the institution, encompassing both school and college students within its spacious environment, holds significant potential to evolve into a professional sports centre with the appropriate vision and infrastructure. Accordingly, he challenged his alma mater take up professional Sports Course, which can become another unique and exciting speciality just as Music in Patkai, well-acclaimed all over. 

Expressing happiness over Patkai reaching the 50th year milestone, Mero said the “Golden Jubilee is the time to dedicate ourselves to move ahead with deeper, clearer and greater commitment to keep the Patkai flag flying high as always.”

Mero further maintained that the college was the place for all round development of a person, both for students, faculty and staff – building character, personality and ‘God fearing education’ and endless opportunities to serve. He also urged all participants to enjoy the tournament with discipline and professionalism.  “Love God, Love yourself, Love your college, Love your studies or work,” he exhorted, before declaring the tournament officially opened. 

Patkai Trophy Golden Jubilee Edition 2024: Day Results