Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 1214/17

CHIEF MINISTER LAUNCHES THE MEGHALAYA STATE LEAGUE 2017-18

Chief Minister, Dr Mukul M Sangma launched the Meghalaya State League 2017-18 (MSL) at a function held at Anton Hall on 12th Dec 17. Speaking during the launch, Chief Minister, Dr Mukul M Sangma said that football in Meghalaya will be taken to the next level through the Meghalaya State League and it will create a new milestone in the state as far as football is concerned. He expressed his happiness that the government has been able to respond to the much needed intervention to help people realize the dreams and passion associated with football. “It also gives an opportunity to connect with football lovers all across the globe and we must take advantage of the emerging opportunities associated with this sport”, he said. The Chief Minister also said that there are a lot of football activities going on in the state which is not regulated and as a result of too many small tournaments being held all over the true and potential talents in the field cannot be nurtured and groomed. The MSL will take football beyond its centre in Shillong and therefore encourage and provide a tremendous opportunity for the youth of the state to immerse themselves in this beautiful game and realize their true potentialities as footballers stated the Chief Minister.

Dr Sangma while assuring support of the government to the tournament through Mission Football added that investment for infrastructures is an important support from the government. He also said that the State has produced players who have drawn the attention of the whole nation and it should be the collective endeavor of all to create exclusive and extraordinary products out of this game. Earlier, President, Meghalaya Football association, Larsing M Sawian informed that the MSL has been conceptualized with the objective to strengthen the competitive structure of football in the state. MSL, which is a feature of Mission Football, is to promote the establishment of football leagues across the State while providing employment opportunities to coaches and referees besides giving a platform to talented players from across the state to showcase their talent at the highest level in the State. 20 teams from Khasi, Jaintia and Garo Hills will be participating in the MSL 2017-18 that will be held at Jowai, Kurkalang in Ri Bhoi, Mairang and Ampati. The Inaugural Match will be held on 16th Dec 17 at Kurkalang Grounds, Ri Bhoi. The Chief Minister also unveiled the MSL Trophy during the occasion. Also present were D P Wahlang, Commissioner & Secretary, Education etc and Lifetime Member, Meghalaya Football Association and Director, Sports & Youth Affairs, M W Nongbri.