The organisers of O’Datiwa U-17 Football Competition have promised participants that they will be fair and impartial in the organisation of the competition and grouping of the teams.
The Ondo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Segun Omoyofunmi, stated this at the draws and sensitisation for the competition yesterday in Akure.
36 teams will be competing in the tournament, with two teams from each of the 18 local government areas.
Omoyofunmi assured the participating teams that the competition would serve as a platform for young players to showcase their potential and unlock greater opportunities in football.
The commissioner said the commencement date and opening ceremony would be adequately announced.
He explained that the tournament was conceived to discover and nurture budding talents across the 18 local government areas of the state.
“Through this competition, we hope to identify and groom football talents at the grassroots who can be integrated into the Rising Stars Academy and ultimately, the Sunshine Stars Football Club.
“The essence of today’s event is to ensure fairness and transparency in how teams are grouped — to eliminate any suspicion of bias or manipulation in match fixtures, and to build trust among participants, coaches, and fans,” he said.
The commissioner emphasised that beyond football, the tournament was also aimed at fostering peace, unity, and a sense of purpose among the youth.
Omoyofunmi charged the teams to uphold integrity and sportsmanship, urging them to “play fair, play smart, and play with pride for their local government and for Ondo State.”
Also, Mrs Evelyn Lebi, Director of Sports in the ministry, congratulated the representatives of the 18 local government areas for being part of the initiative.
She said the competition was designed to positively engage the youths, steer them away from social vices, and serve as a talent discovery platform for the state.
“Without this kind of grassroots competition, it would be difficult to discover new talents, I urge all teams to abide by the rules of the game,”she said.
NAN reports that stakeholders present at the event commended the comissioner for his proactive leadership and commitment to grassroots sports development.
