Kohima, Feb. 24: The much-awaited Nagaland Premier League will kick off on March 2 at Kohima football ground, where Shillong Lajong FC will play an exhibition match against Nagaland at 2pm.
Chief minister Neiphiu Rio, who is also the president of Nagaland Olympic Association, will be present as chief guest.
Ministers, parliamentary secretaries and top government officials will also be present.
Altogether 10 teams — Dimapur United, Doyang from Wokha, Dynamic (Dimapur), Flamingoz (Peren), Naga Tornadoes (Zunheboto), Kohima Komets (Kohima), Life Sports (Kohima), New Market (Kohima), Sangpang (Mokokchung) and Zopipang (Mokokchung) will participate.
The organisers of the league said they had got tremendous support from all quarters, including former Indian captain Bhaichung Bhutia, who is extending support as a patron of Nivia Simbolo Balls, the official ball for the league.
Lajong FC have entered the league as a key associate, with its owner Larsing Ming as a league patron.
“The NPL has got yet another reason to be proud, as the chief minister has offered support,” Asalie Peseyie, the managing partner of NPL, said.
“The clubs are not just a platform for the footballers to showcase their skills but they also provide employment to nearly 200-odd players throughout the season,” he added. Peseyie said the league provides an opportunity for the NPL management, club owners, players and all the key associates to work together and make the most of everything that comes along.
He said it might have been designed for football but at the same time is proving to be a boon for professionals from many other fields, with the NPL providing employment to nearly 100 individuals.
“A league where we provide a platform for our talented players to grow and perform, which results in them finding better opportunities as the league continue to grow,” Peseyie said.
He said the league would create a viable market, which in turn will bring about additional tourism, helps with employment and creates a sector for entrepreneurs to invest in.
