by By: Elijah Ugani
No fewer than 24 teams are set to lock horn in the ongoing tournament of the 11th edition of comr Odey Adamade Unity Cup.
The Coordinator of the tournament, Mr Mayor Undeshi, disclosed that “11 years ago, Comr Odey Adamade, conceived the idea of the tournament to reduce the rate of cultism and other social vices engaged by youths of Obudu, and decided to initiate the tournament which have successfully engaged and kept the youths busy throughout this period”.
Mr Undeshi disclosed that the kick off of the tournament was done by Rev Fr Silverus Ulem, featured Academy FC verses Bekpam FC, which ended in a 2:2 draw.
The tournament which is scheduled to hold simultaneously in two centres, Chief JA Agba Memorial Stadium, Obudu and St Colman’s Primary School, Utugwang, will produce two best team and. The two teams from each of the centres will play to determine the best to play the final.
Mr Undeshi who described the tournament as an open tournament, hinted that interested teams from neighboring local governments and states can participate in the tournament. He disclosed that two teams from Obanliku, Adida FC and Hills FC are currently participating in the tournament.
The Coordinator disclosed that the final will hold on the 6th of September, 2014 which is the eve of Obudu New Yam festival.
Mr Undeshi commended the resilience of the initiator of the tournament, Comr Odey Adamade , and used the opportunity to call on both the government and spirited individuals to consider partnering with the initiator, to ensure that his dream and goodwill for the youths is realized.
Speaking with the captain of Bekpam FC, Mr John Udama, he expressed satisfaction with the organization of the tournament having participated in the tournament for three years now. He noted that his skills has been drastically improved and wished that he could have the opportunity to participate in bigger tournaments that will expose him to the world where his career in football could be advanced.
Another player, Mr Pius Ugbong of Academy FC, told TheLumineNews that he has participated in seven different editions, described the tournament as very successful having grown to the level it currently operate.
Mr Ugbong said his dream is to see himself and other participants display their talents in both national and international fora stated that, “My joy will be complete when some of the boys are sent out of this country. It is my desire that the officials of the tournament sees the players aa partners in this tournament”.
