By Ogholi Oghogho Erica
As a calculated way of harnessing the budding talents of the youths of Epie clan in the heart of Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, the Osomkime Blackson Unity Soccer tournament is set to commence from 1st to 22nd December, 2024.
Speaking with newsmen in Yenagoa, the organizer of the annual event, Comrade Dumeze Akuegbe noted that the idea behind the tournament is basically to contribute to the sustainable development of grassroot sports in Epie clan by identifying those youths that have natural passion for football and give them the necessary incentives for them to attain greater heights in the round leather game of soccer.
Comrade Akuegbe further noted that the maiden edition of the tournament was carried out last year among Atisssa communities also in Yenagoa only, stressing that they decided to spread it to Epie communities this year alone again to ensure that all the Communities that make up the entire Epie-Atissa clan are given the opportunity to actively participate in the competitive event.
He revealed that 13 football teams are prepared to compete in the 2024 edition of the tournament, emphasizing that notable national and local coaches would witness the event and offers an opportunity to scout for young talented players for onward invitation to prominent clubs in the country.
He reiterated that the event powered by Hon. Osomkime Blackson is also aimed at promoting peace, unity and love in Epie clan through sports, noting that the youths would not only be useful to themselves but the society as a whole in the long run.
In his words ” The tournament is an annual event, a gesture shown by Hon. Osomkime Blackson to actively engage Epie-Atissa youths in sports thereby diverting thier attention from societal menaces. The Edepie School field in Yenagoa is the venue for the opening ceremony and the first game with stipulated prizes for all the medalists at the end of the event” .
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