Kohima: Nagaland United Sports Club (NUSC) unveiled its official home, away and reserved kits at an event held at Zone Niathu, 7th Mile, Chümoukedima, on Thursday, as the club prepares to represent Nagaland at the national level.
The jersey launch was part of the Indian Football League (IFL) Trophy Tour programme, which brought together representatives from the football fraternity, government and the community to mark the club’s entry into the national football scene.
NUSC is the first club from Nagaland to represent the state in the Indian Football League, marking a milestone for football in the state.
The programme featured addresses by Nagaland Football Association president Neibu Sekhose and greetings from Tourism and Higher Education minister Temjen Imna Along. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio delivered the keynote address.
The event also included a felicitation segment featuring the All India Football Federation (AIFF), along with musical performances by Ayang Anichar, Vinika Yeptho, Samuel and other artists.
Three kits reflect Naga heritage
The highlight of the programme was the unveiling of the club’s three kits, each designed to reflect different aspects of Nagaland’s culture, heritage and identity.
The home kit is dedicated to Dr Talimeren Ao, the pioneering footballer from Changki who captained the Indian team at the 1948 London Olympics. The jersey features illustrations representing Naga life, culture and heritage.
The words “We play football”, attributed to Dr T. Ao, are inscribed inside the collar, while his name and number appear on the back as a tribute to his contribution to Indian football.
The away kit features a black base with repeating red geometric motifs arranged in vertical rows across the body and sleeves. The design draws on Naga-inspired visual elements while incorporating a contemporary look.
The reserved kit features a light-blue base with green, yellow and red bands on the sleeves and a white star on the upper back. According to the club, the design draws inspiration from Nagaland’s landscapes, history, cultural diversity and people.
The designs were led by Aniho Chishi, lead designer, who worked on incorporating the club’s identity and cultural influences into the three kits.
NUSC opens new office and cafe lounge
Earlier in the day, the club inaugurated its new office and Elevenses Cafe Lounge at the Sovima Regional Centre for Sporting Excellence.
The programme included a prayer led by Zhamhalie Rüpreo, assistant pastor of CRC Sovima, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony chaired by NUSC president John Longkumer.
The event also featured greetings from Elevenses Cafe Lounge, a special address by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and a vote of thanks by NUSC executive member Kuputo Shohe.
The office inauguration and jersey launch mark the club’s efforts to establish its presence both on and off the field as it prepares for competition at the national level.
The jersey launch programme was held in partnership with KAKI Marketing.
For the club, the three kits represent its connection to Nagaland’s heritage and its aspirations as it enters the national football arena.
NUSC’s motto is “Rise Together.”
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