The Meghalaya Football Association (MFA) marked a major milestone on Sunday evening as it completed 50 years of service to the game. The golden jubilee celebrations began with an awards night in Shillong, where footballers who represented India at different levels were honoured for their contributions. Founded in 1976, the association used the occasion to recognise past and present players, coaches, referees and officials whose work helped Meghalaya gain respect on the national and international football stage. The event held on December 22 was the first of several programmes planned over the coming year to mark the association’s 50-year journey. Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla attended the function as chief guest. He was joined by legislators, senior government officials, representatives of the All India Football Federation, district football associations and MFA office-bearers led by president Hamletson Dohling and general secretary Sunesh Syiem.
One of the most important moments of the evening was the felicitation of footballers who went on to play for the Indian senior team. Former India captain Rocus Lamare, along with Eugeneson Lyngdoh, Aiborlang Khongjee, Marlangki Suting and Samuel Lyngdoh Kynshi, were honoured for carrying the state’s colours at the highest level. The association also paid tribute to two late footballers through posthumous awards. Fullmoon Pyrtuh, who represented India at the Asian School Football Tournament, and John Shadap, a member of the India Under-17 team in 2004, were remembered for their contributions.Women’s football received special focus during the programme. Junior internationals Bonifilia Shullai, Alisha Lyngdoh, Fragrancy Riwan, Ribansi Jamu and Ribahunshisha Kharshiing were recognised, reflecting the steady growth of the women’s game in the state.
Honours were also given to those who served Indian football beyond playing roles. Coach Hering Shangpliang was acknowledged for his work with the India Under-20 team, Riiohlang Dhar for officiating at the FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup 2024, Bor Diengdoh for serving as national team manager, and Dohling himself for leading Indian delegations.During the programme, Shylla unveiled the MFA’s golden jubilee logo and spoke about football as one of Meghalaya’s strongest sporting identities. He highlighted government support for grassroots centres, coach education, state leagues and the women’s league introduced this year. He also mentioned the upcoming Mawkhanu Football Stadium and said the state was ready to work closely with the AIFF.