In a landmark move aimed at decentralizing football governance and promoting grassroots development, Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) on Tuesday launched the zonal associations of MDFA at Hotel Whispering Winds. The launch was graced by Speaker NLA Sharingain Longkumer, as the launching dignitary.
Speaking at the programme, the NLA Speaker lauded the efforts of the MDFA asserting that it was a very important move to go to the grassroots. He goes on to say that it is through such efforts only that football in the district will improve and be able to scale greater heights. The speaker lamented that Mokokchung lack proper sports infrastructures, he called upon sports associations like the MDFA to re-invent, re-calibrate the system of working in the association by re-structuring and focusing on the grassroots.
The speaker also highlighted in the status of the astro-turf ground in Mokokchung adding that it will take some more time for the turf to be completed. He also expressed his hope that once the turf is completed, NSL matches can also be played in the coming years.
He also sought the active participation and cooperation of the MDFA towards the astro-turf football ground. The speaker in his concluding speech called for all to make Mokokchung progress through sports with focus on sports tourism.
Earlier in the programme, the objective of the zonal associations was explained by Yimya Jamir, executive member MDFA saying that the structural organization is aimed at enhancing administrative efficiency, nurturing local football talent and improving infrastructure across the district.
The move further aims to pave the way for a more inclusive and participatory football ecosystem. He also added that the formation of the zones will be carried out in phases, with the formation of three zones in the first phase while the remaining zones will be followed in subsequent phases.