The 2026 football season of the Shillong Sports Association (SSA) was formally launched today at the SSA Ground in Shillong by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, who attended the programme as the Chief Guest. The event was also attended by the Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, Wailadmiki Shylla, as the Guest of Honour, former Sports Minister and SSA President Banteidor Lyngdoh, along with officials of the association, participating teams, players, and members of the football community.
During the programme, the Chief Minister officially declared the 2026 football season open and hoisted the SSA flag, marking the formal commencement of the league season. Addressing players, officials, and football enthusiasts, he congratulated the Meghalaya Football Association and the Shillong Sports Association for their continued efforts in strengthening football culture in the state.
“Football holds a very special place in the hearts of our people, and the youth of Meghalaya have always shown immense passion for the game. For many years, we were not able to provide the kind of platform, support, and opportunities that football truly deserved. I am happy that in the last few years, through the collective efforts of the Government, sports administrators, and stakeholders, we have been able to make significant progress,” he said.
Reaffirming the Government’s vision for sports development, the Chief Minister said, “Our vision is clear—we want Meghalaya, and Shillong in particular, to become the football capital of India.” He said that while investment in infrastructure remains important, equal emphasis must be placed on developing human capital in sports.