The President of the Nigeria Soccer Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, has formally endorsed the inaugural Obong Isong Isang Memorial Academies Championship, organized by the Akwa Ibom State Soccer Affiliation (FA).
The event, which is able to run from November 2 to 9, 2024, will characteristic 19 academies in a knockout format on the Uyo Township Stadium, Uyo.
In the course of the draw ceremony, the Chairman of Akwa Ibom State FA, Mr. Samuel Umoh, expressed the affiliation’s imaginative and prescient for the competitors. In his speech, Umoh highlighted the significance of the event as a platform for nurturing younger soccer expertise and fostering self-discipline.
He mentioned: “The 2024 Obong Isong Isang Memorial Academies Championship is a check for the FA and a check for you. We are attempting to construct one thing distinctive. I pray your full help for the maiden version of this competitors to succeed.”
“With 19 registered groups, this turnout is unprecedented. We may have 18 video games in whole—18 finals. Nevertheless it’s not nearly profitable; it’s about making a platform on your gamers to develop.”
“We won’t tolerate any act of indiscipline. Pre-match and post-match interviews are obligatory. Whether or not you win or lose, make sure you take part within the post-match interview.”
All matches will probably be held on the Uyo Township Stadium, with the opening ceremony scheduled for Saturday, November 2, 2024, at 4 PM. Immortality Soccer Academy will kick off the event in opposition to NNS Academy, setting the tone for what guarantees to be an thrilling week of youth soccer motion.
eSporty correspondent Nsikakabasi Akpan, who attended the draw ceremony on Monday, October 28, 2024, famous the joy among the many collaborating groups. “You may see the enjoyment and anticipation on the faces of the crew representatives— an indication the younger lads are able to showcase their expertise on an enormous stage,” Akpan noticed.
Akpan additionally described the endorsement by NFF President Ibrahim Gusau as a major increase for the competitors. “This endorsement from the NFF President elevates the significance of the event. It’s not simply the on-field motion that can seize consideration; the improvements launched by the Samuel Umoh-led Akwa Ibom FA will convey a refreshing contact to the event.”
With obligatory pre-match and post-match interviews as a part of the brand new initiatives, the event goals to advertise professionalism and media engagement on the grassroots stage.
The Obong Isong Isang Memorial Academies Championship guarantees to be a landmark occasion, combining aggressive soccer with a developmental focus, setting a excessive normal for future grassroots competitions.
