The Kids’ Soccer League, organized by Nigeria’s former international footballer, Femi Ajilore, has concluded its latest edition in Abuja. The league, which featured eight teams, was deemed a success by Ajilore, who expressed gratitude to God for the safe conclusion of the season without any major injuries.
The league saw a new champion emerge, with Refined FC winning the main trophy after working hard to secure the U-13, while FC International were winners of the U-8 and U-10 categories.
Ajilore praised the teams for their dedication and commitment to the league, noting that the competition was designed to encourage kids to participate in football and develop their skills. He expressed delight at seeing some of the league’s players being given scholarships to play in Canada and the UK, with one player already playing in the under-13 MLS league for Whitecaps.
The Nigerian former International stated that it is their hope to expand the competition in the future, with plans to include local council teams representing their different areas. This, he believes, will provide more opportunities for kids to participate in the league and develop their skills.
Ajilore’s vision for the league is simple: to encourage kids to participate in football and develop their skills to become professional footballers. He is proud of the progress made so far and looks forward to seeing some of the players represent Nigeria at the national team level and play in top clubs in Europe.
Meanwhile, Barrister Lawal, the Technical Director of the Abuja Kids soccer league noted that this year’s edition was one of the most competitive, with teams having the same points and only differing on goal difference.
He revealed that the league, which featured 117 participants, was a huge success, with the entire FCT football family in attendance. Lawal noted that the league has gained popularity, with the FCT appreciating the efforts of the organizers. The league’s success has also sparked interest in expanding the event to cover all area councils.
The Technical Director revealed plans to involve kids from the under-13 category in the FCT team, with the aim of participating in national competitions. This, he said, would provide more exposure and opportunities for the kids to be seen.
He assured that the league’s organizers are committed to ensuring that the kids continue to develop their skills as they grow. With plans to involve more kids in future editions, the Kids’ Soccer League is set to continue playing a vital role in promoting football development in the FCT.
Also speaking to our correspondent after the tournament, Coach Rafael, the head coach of Refined Nuggets FC, expressed gratitude to God and the organizers of the Kids’ Soccer League for a successful tournament. He described the competition as superb and amazing.
Coach Rafael urged the private sector, government, and Football Associations to continue supporting grassroots football in Nigeria. He noted that the development of young players is crucial for the growth of football in the country.
The Kids’ Soccer League is a platform that provides young players with the opportunity to showcase their skills and develop their talents. Refined Nuggets FC’s victory is a testament to the team’s hard work and dedication to developing young footballers.
The league’s success is expected to inspire more young players to take up the sport, and the organizers are expected to continue providing a platform for them to develop their skills.
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