GRAFTADEAN Inter-LG U-14 football competition commences in Ibadan
In its quest to set a path for the future, the Grassroots Football Talents Developers Association of Nigeria {GRAFTADEAN}, has commenced its Inter-Local Government U-14 Football Competition on Monday, August 19, 2024, at the Lagelu Soccer Temple in Agugu, Ibadan.
The tournament, which has been eagerly awaited by football enthusiasts, was officially declared open by the Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOTs) of GRAFTADEAN, Prince Wasiu Oloyede Asanike, and Vice Chairman, Engr. Afolabi Waheed Aderemi.
In their address during the opening ceremony, the duo urged all the participating teams to conduct themselves in an orderly manner during the tournament, stressing that “grassroots football is important because it provides exposure for talented players yet to come to limelight”.
They, however, reiterated the commitment of the organizer in providing a platform for young football talents to showcase their skills and potentially launch their careers. “Every country intending to become a football powerhouse must give adequate attention to grassroots football. However, despite its obvious importance, grassroots football has received poor support in Nigeria,” the BOTs noted.
Speaking in the same vein, GRAFTADEAN President, Yusuff Kazeem emphasized the association’s tradition of providing equal opportunities for all participating teams, drawn mostly from Ibadan metropolis.
He, however, noted that this year’s edition would not be an exception from the past, where each Local Government would have an equal chance to compete and win, adding that the competition is a significant event in the annual football calendar of GRAFTADEAN.
Meanwhile, on the first day of the tournament, the host Local Government, Ibadan North/East, played a goalless draw with Oluyole LGA. which set the stage for an exciting competition, with all other teams eager to make their mark and emerge victorious.
