The HRA Youth Cup, spearheaded by Odi-olowo Ojuwoye LCDA vice chairman Seyi Jakande, goes beyond just competition. It’s a platform for talented youngsters and a beacon of positivity for the community as revealed by the astute sports lover, Nigeriasoccernet.com writes.
A brainchild of Odi-olowo Ojuwoye LCDA vice chairman Seyi Jakande, he recognizes the twofold purpose of the competition. Firstly, it provides a crucial stage for young footballers to showcase their skills. Past participants have leveraged this exposure to secure professional opportunities in Europe, demonstrating the cup’s effectiveness in launching careers.
The tournament aims to challenge negative perceptions surrounding the Odi-olowo Ojuwoye community. By highlighting the talent and potential of its youth, the cup works to rewrite the narrative and showcase the positive aspects of the area.
Speaking to the press at the press conference and draw ceremony, Jakande posited that sports is crucial for the youth as it is a viable way of “keeping them occupied during their free time”.
“This tournament is all about showcasing the positive aspects of Odi-olowo Ojuwoye. We want to change the narrative and show the world the talented young people we have here, capable of achieving great things”
“Our goal is to push positivity for Odi-olowo Ojuwoye. We have talented youngsters who deserve to be seen, and this tournament is their platform. We want to break down negative stereotypes and show the world what our community is truly about hence why this tournament is a testament to that commitment”.
Meanwhile, Rasaq Ajala, chairman of Odi-olowo Ojuwoye LCDA has assured all participating clubs in the annual Odi-olowo Chairman’s Cup (OCC) of a fair playing field as well as top-class referees.
“We won’t use quack referees, we will use standard and qualified referees. We don’t have interest in any of the team. We expect the officiating officials to be fair and just in their assessment of matches.
“The issue of referees having preferences for any team would not be welcomed.
“The competition is highly impactful. Which have attracted so many teams from different parts of Lagos. Most of the players that played at the previous edition have moved to Europe and that shows the impact the competition have on the youths and community at large”, he shared.
The Odi-olowo Chairman’s Cup keeps youths engaged in sports and promotes fair play. It’s seen Ghetto Tigers and Unification Ladies win in the past.
By Olaleye Oluwadamilola