Smith Pioneer Football Academy U-18 Scouting Program To Produce Future National Team Stars
By Marvelous Ezenwa
The Smith Pioneer Football Academy’s U-18 Scouting Program is currently underway at Awka City Stadium, drawing attention from some of the world’s top football professionals. Among them are FC Barcelona’s esteemed coaches and sports directors, Albert Atmeller Lurbe and Daniel Busquets Ayllon, who have expressed their satisfaction with the remarkable talent on display.
Speaking to FlashnewsMedia, Hon. Ossy Onuko, MD/CEO of the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA), highlighted the significance of this week-long scouting program. The initiative, which aims to identify and nurture young football talent, is set to have a lasting impact on the future of football in Anambra State.
Onuko explained that the selected players from the scouting exercise would join FC Barcelona in Spain, marking a significant milestone in their football careers. He emphasized the importance of this program in advancing the development of football in Anambra State, crediting Ejike Pascal, a native footballer based in Spain, for his contributions to the program’s success.
Onuko also praised the government’s support, particularly acknowledging Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo’s dedication to sports development. “The governor’s unwavering support and love for sports have been pivotal in making this scouting program a reality,” Onuko stated. He also commended Hon. Patrick Estate Onyedum, Chairman of the Anambra State Sports Development Commission, for his role in promoting sports in the state.
Hon. Onyedum echoed these sentiments, lauding Governor Soludo for providing the necessary financial and logistical support for the growth of sports in Anambra. Onyedum highlighted the success of the Anambra State School Sports Initiative (ANSSI), which has produced many young talents now participating in the scouting exercise. “The efforts from our school sports initiative are bearing fruit, with many under-18 players now showcasing their skills and getting the opportunity to shine on an international stage,” Onyedum remarked.
This scouting program not only promises a bright future for the young talents of Anambra State but also underscores the collaborative efforts of key figures like Governor Soludo, Hon. Onuko, and Hon. Onyedum in fostering sports development and creating opportunities for the youth.
0
0
