The 3rd edition of the Edo State Secondary School Football Championship is set to take place from October 28 to November 1 in Benin-City, featuring eight participating teams. Organized by the Edo Peoples Forum 2020, the championship showcases a competitive spirit among schools in both male and female categories. The female competition will include Idia College, Eyean Secondary School, Obiaza Mixed Secondary School, and St. Angela Girls Grammar School, while the male category comprises Edokpolor Grammar School, St. David Mixed Secondary School, Arue Secondary School, and Ogue Community Secondary School. This event not only aims to highlight student talent but also fosters sportsmanship and camaraderie among the participating schools.
Lt. Col. Charles Asowata (retd), Chairman of the Coordinating Committee for the championship, emphasizes that the goal of this tournament extends beyond just sports. He views the competition as a supportive platform that helps secondary school students develop their talents, drawing inspiration from his own formative experiences. By nurturing their abilities through sports, participants are encouraged to grow mentally, physically, and emotionally, thereby preparing them for success in both their sporting endeavors and future careers outside of football. Asowata expresses hope that the athletes will seize the opportunities presented by the championship to strive for greatness.
In his remarks, Asowata acknowledges the vital role played by financial supporters, whom he refers to as “unsung heroes.” He encourages football stakeholders across Edo State to rally behind the tournament, reinforcing the idea that the championship has lasting potential to identify and cultivate future talent. A significant aspect of the tournament is its ability to create pathways for participants: scouts and coaches may look for promising players to offer scholarships to American colleges, providing them with further educational and athletic opportunities.
Former Eagles’ coach Alabi Aisien has praised Asowata and his committee for their initiative in launching the competition, recognizing its importance in talent discovery. He asserts that such tournaments are instrumental in shaping the futures of young athletes, potentially leading them to represent Edo State and Nigeria on larger platforms. Aisien’s endorsement adds credibility to the championship, motivating participants to embrace the competitive experience and aim for sporting excellence.
The organizers have established appealing incentives to motivate participants. Winners from both the male and female categories will receive a cash prize of N1 million, alongside gold medals, a trophy, and certificates of participation. Second-place teams will earn N500,000, silver medals, a trophy, and participation certificates, while third-placed teams will take home N300,000, bronze medals, and trophies as well. This structured prize system reinforces the championship’s competitive nature while also recognizing the efforts of all participants.
Overall, the Edo State Secondary School Football Championship represents a significant initiative aimed at fostering talent and creating opportunities for young athletes. With the commitment of organizers, financial supporters, and football enthusiasts, this tournament endeavors to empower students, highlight their skills, and pave the way for future success both on and off the field. By prioritizing development and establishing a platform for sporting achievement, the championship aspires to leave a lasting legacy for football in Edo State.
