Dr K.C. Nihoshe Memorial Trophy football championship begins in Zunheboto

The second edition of the Dr K.C. Nihoshe Memorial Trophy Open Football Championship kicked off on Wednesday, November 4, at the District Sports Complex Ground in Zunheboto. Six teams entered the competition, which is slated to continue through November 18. The tournament is being organised by Trojans Club Zunheboto, the Nagaland Post reported.

Organisers' vision

Entrepreneur Heto N. Yeptho, chief organiser of the event, addressed the inaugural ceremony and thanked contributors including Isac Z. Yeptho of Aghacho Real Estate, Dimapur, East Dimapur Town Council chairman Niuto Awomi and Trojans Club Zunheboto. He explained that the memorial trophy was created to give local footballers a chance to display their skills and improve their game. Heto expressed hope that the championship will evolve into a larger sporting event in coming years and could open pathways for emerging players to compete at state and national levels. He also highlighted the importance of sportsmanship, discipline and mutual respect among participants.

Team line-up and format

The six participating sides have been split into two groups. Group A comprises Hiyo Football Club, Kiyelho Memorial Team and Brotherhood United, while Group B includes Heto’s XI, King Hornet and Avizuyeto FC. According to the tournament format, the top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, ensuring a clear route to the knockout stage. President of Trojans Club Zunheboto, Hokato Yeptho, urged the teams to "maintain the true spirit of sportsmanship" and wished them success.

Opening ceremony

The inaugural programme was attended by Rev. Inakhu Sumi, pastor of Zunheboto Town Sümi Baptist Church, underscoring the community’s support for the event. The presence of local leaders and religious figures highlighted the role of sport in fostering unity and providing a constructive outlet for youth in the region.

Tribute and legacy

The Dr K.C. Nihoshe Memorial Trophy was instituted to honour the late Dr K.C. Nihoshe, whose contributions to the community are remembered through sport. By hosting the tournament, Trojans Club Zunheboto seeks to sustain his legacy and encourage youth participation in football. The championship aligns with broader efforts in Nagaland to strengthen grassroots sports infrastructure and provide regular competitive opportunities for local talent.

Schedule and expectations

Matches are scheduled throughout the two-week period, with group-stage fixtures determining the semi-finalists. The semi-finals and final are expected to draw larger crowds, reflecting growing interest in football within the district. Organisers anticipate that the event will not only crown a champion but also serve as a platform for players to gain visibility and experience.

The championship, now in its second edition, reflects ongoing efforts to develop grassroots football in Nagaland. Organisers and participants alike look forward to the matches that will determine the finalists and ultimately the holder of the Dr K.C. Nihoshe Memorial Trophy.