Ex-Iwuanyanwu Players Encourages Grassroots Devt In U-16 Sec Sch Cup - President, Mbika

The maiden U-16 Imo State Secondary Schools tournament organized by members of the Ex-Iwuanyanwu Nationale Footballers which kicked off on Wednesday May 29, 2024 has been described as a grassroots developmental program 

Speaking to Sports journalists at the end of the match, the president of the ex-Iwuanyanwu Footballers, Mr Mbiaka Isaac Ugochukwu, said that they organized the competition in order to give back to the society what the society gave to them.

He disclosed that some international Footballers like JJ Okocha,Kalu Nwankwo,Mobi Oparaku, Slyvanus Bahama Oparanozie played for their schools and were all discovered through school sports.

He frowned at the neglect of sports by government, stressing that it is the reason why crime is on the increase.

The ex-footballer said that  he is fulfilled and overwhelmed by the soccer skills and enthusiasm he saw the students display and disclosed that plans are underway to export about five of the exceptional players to Europe.

"Scouts are here watching,if we get exceptional players,5 will go to overseas"He said.

He further hinted that the orientation of the students have changed, having the opportunity to play in Dan Anyiam stadium for the first time.

Mbiaka also disclosed that 41 schools have been grouped into 5 sporting zones covering the 3 senatorial zones of the state for ease of the competition.

Some of the personalities present at the football match includes, the  state commissioner for youth and sports Hon.Obinna Onyeocha,the Chairman Imo Sports Commission Ambassador Eleazar Onyewuchi Ogbonna,the Executive Secretary Secondary Education Management Board,Dame Augustina Azubuike, Director of School Sports Dr Mrs Dorothy Ajoku,members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria Imo chapter and students from the two schools.