[ Mingkeng Osik ]

PASIGHAT, 15 Oct: Ledum won the 24th Odam Ering Memorial Football Tournament 2026, beating Mirem 5-1 in the final in Bilat near here on Thursday.

The winners pocketed a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh, while the runner-up was awarded Rs 1 lakh.

A total of 18 teams participated in the tournament, the organising committee said.

Former footballer Tachong Boko, tournament organiser MLA Ninong Ering, Kalen Saroh and a large number of football enthusiasts witnessed the final match.

Addressing the gathering, Boko stressed the importance of sportsmanship, discipline and a healthy lifestyle, and encouraged young players to stay away from consuming tobacco, alcohol and other vices.

Drawing from his own experience as a football player, he shared that even after retiring from active football, he continues contributing to the sport as a referee.

Speaking on the importance of sports in shaping the youths, he urged them to embrace the message of 'Yes to Sports, No to Drugs'.

"Sports help young people develop discipline, maintain physical fitness and build positive habits," Boko said.

Organising committee chairman Pirtem Panggeng highlighted the challenges and the importance of organising such sporting events at the village level. He said that conducting a tournament of this scale requires considerable effort, coordination, resources and community support.

Despite the challenges, he said, the committee remains committed to providing a platform for players to showcase their talents and encouraging youths to engage in sports and other constructive activities.