Check my thought on how to make the Nigeria Professional Football League toast of fans and sponsors

TASKS BEFORE NPFL STAKEHOLDERS

http://opr.news/s118cf333191104en_ng

My thought on the Nigeria Professional Football League ..how to make it more attractive and attractive.  Read and share

Download Now

https://opr.as/share

2019 HIFL Season ends as UAM Tillers set to defend title in Agege today

2018 defending champions, UAM Tillers, and runners up, UNICAL MALABITES are set to face off in the HiFL 2019 finals, after they both cruised past, OAU Giants and UNILORIN Warriors respectively, to book their place yet again in the highly anticipated finals of the 2019 Super Four, scheduled for today at the Agege township stadium in Lagos. 

Meanwhile, UNILORIN Warriors will play OAU Giants in the third place to complete the 2019 Higher Institutions Football League Super Four.

Activities making the end of the 2019 season begin with the Super 4 press conference held in Lagos yesterday

Director, PACE Sports and Entertainment Marketing, Sola Fijabi, said that all is in place for a successful hosting of the super four, in Lagos, “we are witnessing a reenactment of last year’s final and third-place matches and it is interesting, we are glad about the progress made and the expansion achieved through the season. 

The league has gained wider acceptance among higher institutions across the country and has been noted as a game-changer in higher institution sports in Nigeria, our expansion of participating teams to 32 and our all-impactful Coaching Clinic in Lagos were few of the highlights of the 2019 season for us” Fijabi said

 “We have reviewed the rules of the game in line with our experiences from last year and global trends in football and collegiate sports. We did this in conjunction with our partner, the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) and other technical partners. 

Our desire is to create a league that would be of pride to us as a company, the Nigerian universities and indeed our esteemed sponsors” we have set everything in motion for an awesome finale and we are set to usher in an even better 2020 league season” Fijabi Added.

In his remark, the President of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA), Prof. Stephen Hamafyelto expressed that the 2019 edition of the higher institutions football league has been nothing but a grand success “At NUGA, we are committed to ensuring the sustainability of the league, the 2019 edition has been a grand success, we are pleased with the execution and we are committed to ensuring that our students and indeed sports-loving Nigerians continue to enjoy thrilling experiences across the match centers, this excitement will hope to make grander at the finals”

For the 2019 Higher Institutions Football League Season, the top 32 Universities from NUGA-member institutions played over a period of 21 weeks, with the final four billed for the Agege Stadium, Lagos, on the 26th of October 2019 with third place final kicking proceedings by 12 noon and the final match will follow by 3pm with small doctor On the band stand .

Meanwhile , As part of activities making the End of the season, the HIFL media partners defeated the organiser/sponsor's team in a novelty by three goals to one . The novelty set up the for what to expect in today's. It was full of excitement artistry display of skills and showmanship.

The curtain will drop on the 2019 season with the Awards night for those that have distinguished themselves all through the season.

The league is organised by PACE Sports and Entertainment Marketing in partnership with the Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA). The league is sponsored by Stanbic IBTC, Indomie Nigeria and Premier Cool.

Toroza Terungwa penalty heroics sends Defending Champion UAM Tillers to the Final as Odey shootdown the Warriors from ilorin

2018 defending champions, UAM Tillers, and runners up, UNICAL MALABITES are set to face off in the HiFL 2019 finals, after they both cruised past, OAU Giants and UNILORIN warriors respectively, to book their place yet again in the highly anticipated finals of the 2019 Super Four. 

Toraza Terungwa, was the hero for the resurgent Tillers as he saved three straight penalties, to give his side a 3:0 shoot-out win in front of a roaring home crowd. OAU tillers were the first to score in the 46th minute as tough defender Faleti Ayo brilliantly headed home a cross, to put the Tillers under pressure. However, Tony Eliagwu rescued the home team with a 57th minute leveler, to send them through to level the scores on the day and also on aggregates.

Then it was onto penalties as both teams could not be seperated. It is the second time, the Tillers will qualify ahead of OAU Giants, after the Giants suffered similar fate in the 2018 semifinal stage. 

Elsewhere in Rumuolumeni, Rivers State, UNICAL Malabite’s Odey Santos scored twice in the 45th and 90th minute to send the Malabite’s into the finals after a 2:0 defeat against Unilorin Warriors in their Super Four decider.

UNILORIN Warriors will now play OAU Giants in the third place match while the Tillers and Malabites will lock horns in the finals to complete the 2019 Higher Institutions Football League Super Four. 

The games are scheduled for the 26th of October at the Agege township stadium in Lagos. 

The league is organised by PACE Sports and Entertainment Marketing in partnership with the Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA).

The league is sponsored by Stanbic IBTC, Indomie Nigeria and Premier Cool. The top 32 Universities from NUGA-member institutions will play over a period of 21 weeks, with the final four billed for the Agege Stadium, Lagos.

Nigeria Amputee team calls for Buhari’s intervention

The Nigeria Amputee football team, Special Eagles, currently in Angola for the Africa Amputee Football Cup of Nations, have called for the urgent fatherly intervention of President Muhammadu Buhari towards alleviating their poor condition into the tournament.

The Special Eagles landed, Benguela, venue of the competition, on Wednesday night to return to the competition after nine years of absence due to lack of funds. 

With only solidarity support from the Nigeria Football Federation which was not sufficient to foot their bill, the 15-man team of 10 players, 2 coaches, one back room staff and two officials travelled on the strength of flight tickets provided on credit by their travel agent.

Speaking on arrival in Angola, President of the federation, Alhaji Suleiman Isah, said while they are still expecting the ministry of sports to approve some support for them even while grappling with contending demands from other sports, it has become necessary to appeal for the intervention of the President of the country on the plight of the national amputee football team.

“It is tough for us but we needed to make this trip to keep hope alive for the amputees who have decided to counter their physical disability by engaging respectably in sports. They have been absent from the Africa Nations Cup for nine years because there was no funding support. It will devastate the boys badly if they missed this edition again.

“Unfortunately, the only support we got was from the NFF and it is not enough to cover the cost of flight tickets even as we dropped some players. We got tickets on credit just as we also procured jerseys, tracksuits, boots and other equipments on credit. Worse is that we don’t even have a dime to give to the players as allowances both at the competition and on return.

“We are hoping that the sports ministry will approve some aid for us but we are not certain. Under the circumstance, we wish to respectfully appeal to our deer President to intervene to bail us out even if only to provide for the flight ticket. His fatherly gesture will be a big boost for amputee sports and will also give hope and sense of belonging to our physically challenged persons who are seeking social inclusion through sports, instead of constituting burden to their families or nuisance to the public by begging. It is especially so as amputee football has developed into a professional sports with a number of Nigerians engaged in professional clubs overseas. We need to support the development of this platform in Nigeria to provide opportunities to more amputees. To deny them on this would mean neglect and rejection of this category of our fellow citizens.”

The Nigeria amputee football team will open their Nations Cup campaign against Liberia on Friday, October 4. Their subsequent fixtures are against Cameroon, Tanzania, Sierra Leone and host Angola on October 8.

With experience from the Mexico 2018 World Cup, the Special Eagles are rated as the strongest team in Africa to challenge for the trophy against Angola who are current world champions.

2019 HIFL SEMI FINAL: OAU Ambush UAM , as ESUT tends to explore UNIBEN WEAKNESS

2018 winners of the Higher Institutions football league, UAM Tillers and third placed team OAU Giants will reenact their 2018 semifinal fixture after they both qualified from the quarter final rounds. 

The game will be played at the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University Sports Complex by 4 PM today.

The remaining four teams after weeks of actions

This game in Ile ife last year produced one of the stunning performances of the competition as OAU GIANTS came back twice to win by 5-3 in a 8 goals thriller to the delight of the fans and the neutrals.

UAM Tillers qualified for the semis by defeating BUK Stallions team 5:4 on penalties having played 1-1 on aggregate. 

OAU Giants qualified to the semifinals after defeating LASU Blazers  3-2 on Aggregate. 

In the Other semi final, UNIBEN Royals will square up against ESUT Explorers.

Uniben Royals Edged out last year UNILORIN Warriors,thus denying the warriors another shot at the final 4,a feat achieved by UNILORIN last season. 

 ESUT Explorers booked their place in the final 4 by defeating last year finalist ,the UNICAL Malabites over two legs.

The  return leg ties billed for October 9th,2019

The league is organised by PACE Sports and Entertainment Marketing in partnership with the Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA).

 The top 32 Universities from NUGA-member institutions will play over a period of 21 weeks for the Agege Stadium, Lagos.

DOHA 2019: Okagbare,Oduduru and 23 others make AFN list as team Nigeria depart for World Athletics Championship this weekend

The AFN has selected a 25-member Nigerian team, consisting of Track and Field Athletes as well as Coaches to represent the country at the 2019 IAAF World Championships taking place in Doha, Qatar from the 27th of September to 6th of October, 2019.

The team comprises of the 100 Metre & 200 Metre NCAA double champion Divine Oduduru, all African Games Gold medallists Raymond Ekevwo, and the Queen of track and field Blessing Okagbare.

To compete for the Men’s 100 metre event are, Divine Oduduru, Raymond Ekevwo and Itsekiri Usheoritse while Emmanuel Arowolo as well as Divine Oduduru will represent the country in the Men’s 200m event.

Blessing Okagbare, is the country’s sole representative in the Women’s 100 and 200 metre events.

National champion, Patience George Okon and the just concluded Morocco All African Games Silver Medallist, Favour Ofili will represent the country in the Women’s 400m event.

African Games and Common Wealth Gold Medallist Tobiloba Amusan will feature in the Women’s 100mH while Rilwan Alowonle and Edose Ibadin will feature in the Men’s 400mH and 800m events respectively.

For Field events, African Games Gold Medallists Chukwuebuka Enekwechi and Oyesade Olatoye will feature in the Men and Women’s Short-put events respectively while African Games Discus throw champion Chioma Onyekwere will feature in the Women’s Discus throw event.

Our outstanding Long Jumper and All African Games Gold Medallist Ese Brume will feature in the Women’s long jump event.

Representing the country at the Relays are Enoch Adegoke, Ogho-Oghene, Seye Ogunlewe, Divine Oduduru, Itsekiri Usheoritse, Arowolo Emmanuel as well as Raymond Ekevwo who will all participate in the Men's 4x100m while Rosemary Chukwuma, Bukola Jasper, Ntia-Obong Mercy, Joy Udo-Gabriel, and Blessing Ogundiran will represent the Women.

Representing at the 4x400m Female Relay is a team consisting of Patience George Okon, Favour Ofili, Blessing Oladoye, Abike Egbeniyi, and Blessing Ovwighoa-Jabre.

The Coaches team led by the AFN Technical Director, Sunday Omotayo Adeleye includes Gabriel Okon, Kayode Yaya, Ogunkoya Sean Micheal, Endurance Teye, Opuana Gabriel and Soetan Olalekan Stephen.

In conclusion, we the Athletics Federation of Nigeria AFN, will like to make of worthy note that the entire team has been selected based on the IAAF qualification standard and we are prepared to deliver on the set mandate. The team departs for Doha, Qatar on Sunday 22nd of September 2019. 

#IAAFDoha2019

NFF hunts for African opposition, after sealing Eagles/Brazil

 

The Nigeria Football Federation is working hard at sealing a match with an African team for the Super Eagles, after announcing on Monday night that the three –time African champions will play Brazil in a friendly in Singapore on Sunday 13^th October.

 

Nigeria and Brazil will tango in a much –anticipated encounter at the Singapore National Stadium, Kallang, Singapore on Sunday, 13^th October, 23 years after Nigeria, on their way to winning Africa’s first Olympic football gold, spanked the Selecao in the semi finals at the Athens Stadium in the State of Georgia, USA.

 

Efforts to match the two teams in a friendly match after that spectacular game came to nought for several years, until the organizers of the 8^th All-Africa Games that Nigeria hosted in 2003 flew the Brazilians to Abuja in June of that year. Brazil won 3-0.

 

There has been no competitive tie between both countries’ senior teams since that memorable U23 match in Georgia, and next month’s session will test the character of the African champions who are somewhat building a new team after a rash of retirements and injuries to key players.

 

That newbreed came close to shocking Ukraine in a friendly match in Dnipro a week ago, before bungling a two-goal lead to stalemate at 2-2.

 

“We are happy to have sealed this encounter with Brazil, the five-time champions of the world. It is not everyday that you get to Brazil, and I think it is very good for our young team.

 

“The Nigeria Football Federation must also commend Eurodata Sport, our FIFA –licensed Match Agent, for pulling this off. Having said that, the focus now is on getting an African team for the Super Eagles as a second match for the FIFA window in October, ahead of their 2021 AFCON qualifying matches in November,” NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, said.

 

The Super Eagles have two 2021 AFCON qualifying dates in November. After hosting the Squirrels of Benin Republic on 14^th November, they will fly to Maseru for a Day Two encounter with the Crocodiles of Lesotho on 19^th November

CHAN EAGLES: Amapakabo names Omoyele, mfon ufoh, 18 others as NIgeria begins qualifying campaign against Togo on Sunday in lome

Coach Imama Amapakabo has named the 20 players who will fly Nigeria’s flag at Sunday’s African Nations Championship qualifying match against Togo in Lome.

 

First choice in goal Adamu Abubakar is joined by Super Eagles’ goaltender Ikechukwu Ezenwa and Enyimba’s Theophilus Afelokhai, as well as defenders Olisah Ndah, John Lazarus, Etboy Akpan and Ebube Duru.

 

There are also ace forward Ndifreke Effiong (who netted two of the five goals that condemned Sudan to the scrap heap in the final round of the U23 AFCON qualifying series), Mfon Udoh and Tosin Omoyele.

 

The delegation will fly out of Abuja on Friday to Lome, where they face the Sparrow Hawks at the Stade de Kegue as from 4pm on Sunday.

 

20 EAGLES B FOR TOGO

 

Theophilus Afelokhai (Enyimba FC); Adamu Abubakar (Wikki Tourists); Olisah Ndah (Remo Stars); Denis Okon (Akwa United); Stephen Manyo (Enyimba FC); John Lazarus (Lobi Stars); Etboy Akpan (Akwa United); Ebube Duru (Lobi Stars); Oluwadamilare Olatunji (Enyimba FC); Fatai Gbadamosi (Shooting Stars); Ndifreke Effiong (Akwa United); Seth Mayi (Remo Stars); William Ukeme (Wikki Tourists); Samuel Matthias (Akwa United); Chisom Orji (Collin Edwin Academy); Mfon Udoh (Akwa United); Reuben Bala (Enyimba FC); Tosin Omoyele (Plateau United); Sikiru Alimi (Lobi Stars); Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Heartland FC) 

Abuja, Lokoja agog as NWPL Play-Off, NWFL Pro-League get dates

The Secretariat of the Nigeria Women Football League, has fixed October 2, 2019 for the Nigeria Premier League Relegation Play-Off.

According to the letter sent to the four clubs involved; Osun Babes of Osogbo, Dream Stars of Lagos, Kaduna Queens and Invincible Angels of Gboko, and signed by the NWFL Chief Operating Officer, Alhaji Ayo Abdulrahman, the NWPL Relegation Play-off will take place at the FIFA Goal Project, Package B of the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abuja.

The first game will be played at 1pm, between Loser A (Osun Babes) and Loser C (Kaduna Queens). While the second game between Loser D (Invincible Angels) and Loser B (Dream Stars) will come up at 3pm.

The winners of the two games will stay back in the Nigeria Women Premier League for the new season, while the two losing teams will be relegated to the NWFL Pro-League.

In a bumper package, the Nigeria Women Football League has also announced that the Nigeria Women Pro-League Competition will be played as a Zonal Competition. 

This has been scheduled to hold between 3rd to 7th October, 2019 at the Confluence Stadium, Lokoja, Kogi State.

The Women Pro-League would see four teams; Pelican Stars of Calabar, Police Female Machine FC of Uyo, Moje Queens FC of Ilaro and Olori Babes FC of Warri, battle for the two promotion slots to the Nigeria Women Premier League.

In a signed letter sent to these clubs, the NWFL Chief Operating Officer, Ayo Abdulrahman, disclosed that, 3rd October, 2019 will be the arrival date for the clubs. The draws for competition holds same day.

The Match Day One slated for 4th October 2019, would see games played at 1pm and 3pm.

The Match Day Two is on 4th October, 2019, at 1pm and 3pm.

There will be a rest day on 6th October, and the Match Day 3, would see games at 1pm and 3pm to complete the round robin format.

My Visit To Nigeria With The Partnership Of Bereckiah International Is About Sports, Education and Humanity, Says Dr Corttrell Kinney

American Sports Agent and Consultant, Dr Corttrell Kinney who has arrived in Nigeria for a sports development project in conjunction with Bereckiah International Sports Agency; made known on Wednesday in a media briefing that his sports development project in Nigeria with Mr Wonders Nwigwe Nduka is all about Sports, Education and Humanity.

Dr. Kinney disclosed this in his welcome address stating that this is the first time he will be launching a project with such magnitude as regards education and sports with Bereckiah International Sports Agency with the immense help that the agency has administered in bringing other partners on board.

Dr Corttrell at the press conference

Speaking about his partnership with  Wonders Nwigwe; Dr. Cottrell Kinney said: "Yes, it's about Sports, Yes, it's about education and it's also about the humanity. Touching the live of all kids and also helping the youths to realise their own abilities and their prominence in the world. We all know about the talents that are abound in Nigeria, and if they are given the opportunity to connect, then we connect".

"It's not only about soccer [football], but it's also about American football, baseball and also basketball, and so we are looking at a multiplicity of sports; tennis as well". Kinney disclosed.

As regards the scholarship that would be given; Kinney said; "The scholarships would be full scholarships for students to study; which would have housing [accommodation], food, transportation which would be paid for from our end and also have sponsors in America; and eventually we hope to have a sports-life academy here [in Nigeria] with the involvement of Bereckiah International Sports Agency to have a bigger platform in searching for talents and nuture them to limelight"

With the on going rise of racism, Dr. Kinney made known:

"Whether Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, you represent a tribe. Racism has to speak of what kind of character you have first, your integrity, knowing who you are. But doing a program of united front, we can tackle racial issues with a cultural train, by training the mind to be very confident and making yourself not being attacked through racism. Education is Key, and they will respond."

Dr. Cottrell Kinney expressed his gratitude to be in Nigeria, to work with Beraciah International Sports Agency's CEO, Mr. Wonders Nwigwe Nduka, the youth of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari(GCFR) and Vice President Yemi Osibanjo(GCON), Governor's, Senators, House of Representatives and also Nigerians who have given him a warm welcome since he arrived the country.

Dr Corttrell Kinney arrives Nigeria for Sports development projects

Dr Corttrell Kinney is in Nigeria for Sports development projects in the mold conjunction of Bereckiah International Sports Agency to fish out raw talents in some states in the nation through sports and education

“We work with an organization to limelight talents for Nigeria through soccer, basketball, American football, etc. 

In our partnership with some states we are looking to select talents and fit them to our scholarship programs so that they can study, because it's not just not about sports, it's also about education in other to reach their potentials”.

“We want those who are talented in sports to be able to go to school in the US and also develop their sporting talent with education”, Kinney said.

“However the partnership we give us a bridge to utilize their talents and that will be taking to America and  progress successful in the world, with the hope of coming back to Nigeria and help to uplift more youths in the region and greater communities”.

CEO of Bereckiah International Sports Agency Wonders Nwigwe Nduka also sais that Kinney visit will confer awards to President of Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Muhammed Buhari (GCFR) with Vice President of Nigeria His Yemi Osibanjo (GCON), some state Governor's, Deputy Governor's, senators, House of Representatives, Individuals who have contributed immensely to youth development.

HIFL SOUTHWEST DERBY: LASU Blazers Bank on 12th man as OAU Giants Call for Peace

Event: 2019 HIFL 2nd Leg Quarter Finals

Teams: LASU BLAZERS 0 V 2 OAU GIANTS

TIME : 4PM DATE: 11TH OF SEPTEMBER, 2019

VENUE: LASU OJO SPORTS CENTRE

The die is cast and the grass will suffer as these two Bigwigs get on the turf , Obafemi Awolowo University Football team aka the OAU GIANTS will lock horns with their Opponent, Lagos State University Football team aka the LASU BLAZERS in the second leg of the HIFL quarter finals,the lasuites suffered a crushing two nil defeat against the giants from OAU,in the first leg played at ile ife a week ago, the pride of the Lagos based team is at stake as they stare elimination in the face. 

The need three clears goals to ensure they booted out OAU giants and made the short  trip from Ojo to Agege for the Super 4. They have made a passionate appeal to their fans to come out in their numbers to support the team to achieving the near impossible as the OAU giants is yet to conceed any goal in the tournament. 

In an open letter posted on their Twitter handle,

 our Dear Fans,

It's going to be the second leg of the quarter final against @OAUGiants

and we would need you as our 12th man on match day against them. Please bring your full support to the sport center on weds.

In a swift reply the OAU retweeted and send a reply,calling the fans to come and enjoy the beautiful, support the their team and ultimately not to lose the essence of the game.

Here is their the content of their tweet

'Football is a game of love, a game of passion.

Let's make love, not war! 

We're brothers in the game, not enemies on the pitch! 

LASUites, come out & watch beautiful football from 2 amazing teams, support your own, but sure don't lose the essence of the game. 

#LASUvsOAU 

Bauchi first lady partners Berackiah International talented youth for America schorlarship project

The First Lady of Bauchi State, Hajiya Aishatu Bala Mohammed has endorsed and partner US based agent Dr Corttrell Kinney and Bereckiah International Sports Agency for Girls Child Education in Bauchi State through her excellency Non-Governmental Association (NGO), Al-Muhibbah Foundation.

The endorsement and partnership to invite Dr Corttrell Kinney to Bauchi State was made at the government house, Bauchi this evening.

The state first lady said her NGO was initially founded to address the issue of humanitarian activities to the nation, she said: "although Al'mihibbah Foundation is a non Governmental Organization that was known for humanitarian activities aimed at addressing issues on education, health and other challenges, the foundation will do everything possible to identify and initate with programs towards addressing challenges faces by women and children at large.

The First Lady, thanked Dr Corttrell Kinney and CEO of Bereckiah International Wonders Nwigwe Nduka for the good initiative that will touch lives of many, and also exploring Girls Child Education to Bauchi state.

She further appreciate the support and encouragement of her husband, the state Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed.

Dr Corttrell Kinney was elated, thanking the state First Lady and the state government for their collaboration on special development projects.

However, Wonders Nwigwe Nduka, expressed the delight from the First Lady for endorsing their intitatives for the state.

He noted that, the Bauchi First Lady demonstrated full understanding of some of the benefits.

Talented Nigeria youths to hit America for sports and Educational developments as Berackial International partners Corttrell Kinney on scholarship for super talents

Berackial International has partner Dr Corttrel Kinney to help some burden talents in Nigeria with scholarship to further their Education in America in order to attain their full potential of becoming an Educated sportsman www.sportspedalng.blogspot.com can reveal.

According to the CEO of Berackial International,Mr Wonders Nwigwe Nduka the partnership is basically for talents discovery and whosoever discover in  sports like Tennis,Basketball, Volleyball, table tennis ,football etc which will be sponsored to school in America as well as help them to be active in sports to horn their skills in their chosen field and become their best.

Dr Cortttrel in partnership with the Governors of Kano state, Enugu state, Ebonyi states and Rivers state; will sponsor talents discovered in the states to the United states to further their Education and horn their sporting skills.

He made this disclosure in a chat with with sportspedal media. 

He also disclosed that the project is  strictly for students that are willing  to school in America and continue to pursue their sporting career under the best training standards where progress can be monitored with time as the scholarship package will  cover all expenses.

'It's not only a sport thing but  a combination of both Sports and Education as whosoever selected will be ready to go to school in America as well as be actively in school'.

Dr Corttrell kinney is expected  in Lagos on the 16th of September,where he will address a world press conference in Lagos to kick start the beginning of the project that will help the youths of Nigeria achieve their dream.

A peep into Dr corttrell Kinney's profile shows he is a heavyweight when it comes to helping humanity in his little capacity and resources

Dr Corttrell graduated from the Morehouse College where he studied Biology and proceeded for his Doctorate work at Case western in the department of physiology and Biophysis.

His Briliance and Leadership skills has seen him hold numerous positions that are focus on  humanitarian work and he is presently the chairman of the Martin Luther Jr. Holiday Schorlaship committee also holds the vice president position of Concerned Partners in Education, Team Leader and Tutor with the Saturday Tutoring Program and a Mentor with the B.R.I.C.K. Program. 

Currently, Dr. Kinney is a personal mentor for over 30 High School and College youth from the Greater Cleveland area. He sits on the board of Ginn Academy. Corttrell also started The Corttrell Kinney Scholarship Fund through College Now of Greater Cleveland. He is the CEO and President of Hyland William Consulting LLC. 

Corttrell's work has been focused on Africa.  He is passionate about helping organizations in Africa to develop and grow and has extensive experience helping businesses in Africa.  

He has worked with Thione Niang and Akon on projects, such as the Give 1 Project and Akon Lighting Africa.  He also has helped numerous non-profits in Africa to raise funding and obtain resources.  He helped to set up the Samuel Eto'o Foundation in America. 

 He has worked with several first ladies in Africa to set up their foundations in America.  He works with Oasis Cares Water effort to help provide clean drinking water to the Democratic Republic of Congo.  He is very active in helping youth from Africa obtain scholarships to study in America and play sports, such as soccer, basketball and American Football.   

All of his efforts are to help uplift those in need through social entrepreneurship.  He believes that business and entrepreneurship can help lift Africa to the next level of advancement on the global platform.

Berackial international can be reached on 08094236029,08165070469 for partnership.

 

2019 HIFL: Defending Champion UAM Tillers Ambush KUST Pyramids in Kano as Final legs of Round of 16 take Centre stage

Higher Institution Football League, HIFL returns as defending Champion University of Agriculture Maiduguri aka UAM tillers Ambush Kano State University of Technology KUST Pyramids at the KUST sports Arena wudil,kano state in one of the Week 9 matches ,and the final legs of the Round of 16 matches that will played across four centres by 4pm today.

UAM Tillers won the first leg by 2 goals to nill,and KUST Pyramids will need a clear 3 goals victory to join OAUGiants UNILORIN Warriors LASU blazers  and UNIBEN Royals in the Quarter finals

Other fixtures schedule to hold today ,Bayero University kano football team the BUK stallions will host Ahmadu Bello University's ABU nobles ,the first leg ended Goalles

University of Calabar ,UNICAL MALABITES will take 3 -1  first leg Advantage to their host Rivers State University ,RSU dolphins with the host needing a clear 2 goals victory to advance.

University of Uyo ,UNIUYO Tuskites will need to do more for them to make it to the Quarter finals, they need to overturn a 3 deficit as they host Edo State University, ESUT Explorers at the Uniuyo sports complex uyo .

The HIFL is in its second season,the collegiate football platform has been a veritable ground for talents discovery as some of the talent discovered are playing in the Nigeria professional football league,NPFL.

It is organised by pace sports and marketing in collaboration with Nigeria University Games,NUGA and sponsor by Stanbic IBTC,premier cool and Indomie Noodles

2019 HIFLWeek 6 Reviews: UAM Tillers,UNICAL and ESUT off to good home win

2018 winners of the Higher Institutions football league, University of Agriculture Maiduguri aka UAMTillers started the 2019 round of 16 stage on a brilliant note, as the 10-man team, secured a comfortable 2:0 home win over visitors kano State University State Technology aka KUST PYRAMIDS in Makurdi on Wednesday. 

UAM Tillers, who were without last season’s Most valuable player, Ebuka David, put pressure on the visitors’ despite been reduced to 10 men in the first half. 

The team finally secured two late goals to the delight of the home fans in the 74th and the 89th minute courtesy of Terkuma Abata and Attargher Job.

Elsewhere in Calabar, 2018 runners up, UNICAL MALABITES were the better side at home against Rivers State University aka RSU DOLPHINS and will be going into the return leg with a 3:1 advantage. 

Malabites’ Ngaji Ekpong put the hosts ahead in the 2nd minute, while Emmanuel Charlie and Godwin James secured the victory with goals in the 22nd and 43rd minutes respectively, Manfred Emmanuel of RSU Dolphins ensured that the visitors did not leave without a goal with his 58th minute strike. 

In Enugu, Enugu State University Technology, ESUT Explorers defeated UNIUYO TUSKITES, with a comfortable 3:0 win. Emmanuel Emmanuel, Ngene Nnamdi and Ugwu Tochukwu all shared in the spoils with goals in the 18th, 34th and 58th minutes respectively. 

In Zaria, ABU Nobles were held at home to a goalless draw by BUK Stallions, opening up the second leg for more exciting action. 

Results at a Glance:

UAM tillers 2 -0 KUST Pyramids

Unical Malabites 3 v 1 RSU Dolphins 

ESUT Explorers 3 vs 0 UNIUYO TUSKITES

ABU NOBLES 0 V 0 BUK STALLIONS

JC International academy owner blast: The future of Nigeria National team begins with imparting Grassroots coaches as the 2nd Edition of JC coaching Clinic holds in Ogun state

The need to engage grassroots coaches in training, seminars and clinics on the trend of modern day coaching has once again been brought to the fore as a veritable tool for developing Football at the grassroots level.

The needs were highlighted by the Chairman, JC International Football Academy, United States based Dr. Joseph Ogunsanya on Saturday 27th of July,2019 at the second edition of the JC coaching clinic in Papalanto, Ewekoro Local Government, Ogun State.

Coaches at the coaching clinic

Dr Ogunsaya who confirmed that the future of any country’s national team begins with imparting knowledge in the grassroots coaches appreciated his Wife for her continuous support since the dream started.

Dr Ogunsaya while reacting to questions from the media as regards his reasons for putting a lot of money, time and resources into the event said “ basically the future of Every country national team is based on the amount of coaching that is received at the grassroots ". 

The football administrator also on how he fell in love academy football and model he has in shagamu

'Long time ago, I took a US team to Sweden to play, I fell in love with what I saw in Sweden, kids were camped in a hostel, a very big pitch was in use, and then I decided that I will come up with something like that later in future, that’s the Genesis of the JC International Football Academy”.

“The Second aspect is the coaching clinic, which is strictly for the grassroot coaches, it is the second edition because I knew I need to give something back to Nigeria”.

Meanwhile one of the Clinic instructors, Head Coach of MFM FC Fidelis Ilechukwu was full of praises for the organizers, he said he was stunned to know that a gargantuan edifice for sports development was erected in that area.

On the Coaches clinic proper, Fidelis Ilechukwu said “We learn everyday, this is quite huge and massive, I must commend the organizer for the opportunity given, I initially wanted to attend as a classroom student because I believe no knowledge is lost, but then, I learnt a lot as an instructor too”.

“I am quite optimistic that the grassroot coaches have learnt a whole lot, I urge all of them to be patient and take life as it comes”.

Also in attendance were the head coach and assistant coach of Gateway United, Hakeem Busari and Shakiru Lawal and the Chairman Ogun State Football Coaches Association, Mr Olaseinde Bankole among other Football Coaches.

Hakeem Busari also heaped praises on the organizers, adding that “This clinic should come up at least twice a year, it beats my imagination and we have all learnt one thing or the other which will help us going forward”.

After the clinic proper, there was a novelty match between the coaches and players of JC International Academy which ended 1-1 at full time.

2019 NWFL Week one Review: Bayelsa whiplash Kaduna in NWPL clash as Abia, Edo, others record wins

Nigerian champions, Bayelsa Queens recorded the highest win on matchday 1 of the 2019 Nigeria Women Premier League (NWPL) which kicked off across eight centres and the four groups on Wednesday, July 24.

The Restoration Girls pummelled visitors, Kaduna Queens 3-0 at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa.

Rafiat Sule scored the match opener for the Yenagoa side in the 8th minute, Joy Bokiri takes the goal tally to two in the 30th minute while Mary Anjor grabbed the winner in the 67th minute to hand the side the whole three points at stake. Sule’s eight minutes goal went down in history as the fastest goal on matchday 1 of the new league season.

Edo queens vs Dreamstars 

Elsewhere, it was not a dreamed start for the top-flight newcomers, Dream Stars Ladies as they were piped 0-1 by visiting side, Edo Queens at the Agege Stadium in Lagos. Grace Henry lone strike proved decisive to hand the Benin City amazons the league opener’s first away victory and the three points in their kitty. The presence of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) chairperson, Aisha Falode and other dignitaries did nothing to help the course of the Lagos side to get even against highly inspired and motivated Benin City side.

Confluence Queens made their home turf counts positively with two unanswered goals against visiting side, Ibom Angels at the Confluence Stadium in Lokoja. Coach Whyte Ogbonda ensured his former side went back home empty-handed to Uyo.

Kemi Famuditi scored from the penalty spot in the 29th minute to give her side the lead while Joy Michael scored the assurance goal and winner in the 57th minute.

Abia Angels defeated hard fighting first timers, Invincible Angels 2-1 in Umuahia. The Umuahia side led after eleven minutes through Grace Marcus while the Gboko side achieved parity in the 22nd minute through Favour Dagogo. Nwamaka Nneneme missed a golden opportunity to up the side goal tally from the penalty spot but Marcus rose to the occasion to make up for the loss with her second goal in the 68th minute.

Super Falcons coach Thomas dennerby enjoying the matches at one of the centre

Rivers Angels sweated to their panties to snatch a goal victory against tough side, FC Robo Queens at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt.

Nigerian captain, Evelyn Nwabuoku grabbed the much sought after goal from the penalty spot in the first half stoppage time to hand the Jewels of Rivers the whole three points in the hotly contested encounter.

Osun Babes shared the spoils goalless with visiting side, Delta Queens at the Osogbo Township Stadium.

Sunshine Queens held former champions, Nasarawa Amazons to a barren draw at the Akure Township Stadium.

Heartland Queens, too were unable to displaced visitors, Adamawa Queens as the encounter ended barren at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri.

NWPL matchday 1 results:

Dream Stars Ladies 0-1 Edo Queens

Osun Babes 0-0 Delta Queens

Bayelsa Queens 3-0 Kaduna Queens

Confluence Queens 2-0 Ibom Angels

Abia Angels 2-1 Invincible Angels

Rivers Angels 1-0 FC Robo Queens

Sunshine Queens 0-0 Nasarawa Amazons

Heartland Queens 0-0 Adamawa Queens.

2019HiFL : OAU,UI headline Round of 16 as hostilities return across four campuses

The 2019 Higher Institution Football League returns on Wednesday with  four mouth watering fixtures in the Round of 16 across four centres in the country .

Perhaps the biggest of them all is the much anticipated heavy weight clash between Obafemi Awolowo University ile ife football team otherwise known as the OAU giants and the University of Ibadan also known as the UI Pioneers as the exciting Higher Institution Football League, HIFL, enters week 6.

The rivalry between the  students and graduates of both schools is legendary, at every opportunity either in pubs,libraries, workplace social gathering, the debate is always about one topic.. my school is better than yours.

With pride and Ego at stake and ultimately a quarter final ticket on the table this match ticks all the boxes of a perfect matchup.

This is an opportunity for both schools to extend and proof their superiority over one another once again,as the case may be.

There will be emotions ,passions, ultimately there will undue flow of adrenaline as both sides will  battle like a prince returning from an exile, and forcefully gunning for the throne of his ancestors. 

The turf of the OAU sports complex will suffer because high level of dexterity of skills is expected to be displayed by both teams as they compete for honours. 

OAU giants are coming into the game as favourite having made last year's super 4 in Lagos,they were drawn by in the group stage hence they will be playing their first game of the season.

Playing in front of their vociferous supporters will surely boost their confidence to go all the way and the giants from ife are set to trample on the Pioneers when they show up on Wednesday.

Though UI Pioneers struggled to make it out of their group but they did enough to outscored the dreaded LASU team,the propeller which took them to the round of 16,the game no doubt lift their spirits and will surely increase them in believe that they can face any opposition in their bid to be crowned the 2019 champion.

The fact that the Pioneers played in the group stage will surely give them some edge,mistakes would have been corrected and strategy will would have perfected.

 

The die is cast, we surely  have more than a match on our hands its  battle for the kings ,a battle royal indeed.

In the  Other fixtures, the LASU Blazers will host the FUTA tigers at the ojo campus of the Eko for show team having qualified on top of their group at the Ibadan centre the lasuites are dangerously poised to blast past the tigers from Akure.

Uniben Royals have a great first round performance and they will be high in confidence to face the FUTMINNA Transformers, another side that are not push overs when it comes to inter collegiate football in the country.

While it's going to be Royal rumble in Ilorin the Uniilorin warriors will take on Federal University of Oye Ekiti football team ,better known as FUOYE dazzlers.

The winner of these match over two legs  will proceed to the quarter finals competition as the return leg will take place in a fortnight. 

The HIFL is organised by Pace sports and marketing and proudly sponsored by Stanbic IBTC,premier cool and Indomie

Ann Chiejine upbeat as Abia Angel's takes on tricky invincible Angles

Abia Angels head coach, Ann Agumanu-Chiejine has said her side are quite ready for the testy and tricky season’s opener against newcomers, Invincible Angels.

The Umuahia side will confront debutants from Makurdi in Wednesday’s Nigeria Women Premier League (NWPL) Group D matchday 1 clash at the Umuahia Township Stadium.

The 2018/19 NWPL abridged season is due to commence on Wednesday at the various centres among the four groups.

Agumanu-Chiejine said though her side lost substantial number of players to competitors in the out gone season the rookies are damn ready to give the top-flight campaign the necessary push it deserves.

“Abia Angels are ready for the 2018/19 NWPL season as well as the starter against newcomers, Invincible Angels on Wednesday in Umuahia.

“However, worthy of note is the fact that we lost 19 key players to our rivals at the end of last season.

“We will be parading bunch of greenhorns and unknown players in the premier league though we are determined to make them known prior to the end of the season.

“I always believe that what make a coach worth his/her onion is ability to bring unknown players to limelight and stardom.

“We combed the length and breadth of the grassroots and villages to shop for rookies who will be debuting in the premier league for the first time.

“They are hungry for action and we are well primed to make them superstars at the end of the league campaign.

“Their first test is the clash against Invincible Angels and they have promised to start the campaign on a winning note,” said the former Nigerian shot stopper.

Agumanu-Chiejine insisted that her side will make amend this time around the side near miss of the Super 4 cut last season.

“Abia Angels narrowly missed the Super 4 spot in the out gone season, it’s still our target to play in the Super 4 this time around.

“I pray the players will play strictly to instruction throughout the season’s campaign to be able to top their group to earn the slot,” said the former Nigerian assistant coach.

Abia Angels will campaign for the prime position in Group D together with newcomers and matchday 1 opponents, Invincible Angels, Confluence Queens and Ibom Angels.

NWPL matchday 1 fixtures:

Rivers Angels Vs. FC Robo Queens

Osun Babes Vs. Delta Queens

Dreamstars Ladies Vs. Edo Queens

Heartland Queens Vs. Adamawa Queens

Bayelsa Queens Vs. Kaduna Queens

Sunshine Queens Vs. Nasarawa Amazons

Confluence  Queen Vs. Ibom Angels

Abia Angels Vs. Invincible Angels

JC coaching Clinic to hold on Saturday as Fidelis Ilechukwu confirmed participation

Olympic Eagles assistant coach and MFM FC of Lagos gaffer, Fidelis Ilechukwu will grace this year' JC Coaching Clinic as guest coach,the organiser of the annual coaching clinic program have confirmed.

The MFM gaffer will share some of his success stories with some grassroot coaches that will be attending this year's JC Coaching Clinic.

According to Dr. Joseph Ogunsanya,

Chairman of JC International Football Academy and the coaching  Programme Coordinator 

 "Based on his experience from Grassroot to the level he is at the moment, he will be giving time to impact his skills on coaches that are attending the clinic."

Camara as the MFM's coach is fondly called is delighted to part of the coaching course billed for Last Saturday in July at the JC international stadium along papalanto/shagmu Road.

 "I'm delighted to be part of the JC Coaching Clinic, I like new challenges and been busy all the time. That the  Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) is in it off-season shouldn't mean one can learn a new thing.

"Not minding my A-list Coach status, am ready to learn from any coach as football gives back to one, what he/she has given to it.

"Coaching is symbiotic as we learn new things in the beautiful game, and new things happen everyday.

"The new things could be training methods, playing, marking patterns, attack and defence formats, scoring and defending set-pieces."

The program will be facilitated by coach Akeem Busari and Coach Olaseinde Bankole and it will feature Basic Coaching, coaching methodology, professionalism, care and prevention of injuries as well as admistration of first aid.

The program will run for 9 hours will also feature concussion of playing football and classroom training .

The one day coaching event is billed for the JC Stadium Papalanto- Shagamu, Ogun State on July 27,2019 from 8am to 9pm.

For enquiries about participation interested grassroots coach can call 08027602428,09059883585

2019 NWFL PREVIEW : All you need to know

Nigerian Women soccer fans are eagerly awaiting the start of the 2019 Nigeria Women Premier League season after a long summer break. The new season begins on Wednesday, the 24th of July 2019 with eight matches across all centres on match day one. 

*WHICH CLUBS MAY SPRING SURPRISES*?

Bayelsa Queens may once again be starting the new season as top title contender. However, the league is more evenly balanced than it has ever been.

With the grouping shared into four, there is every possibility that we would have more than two new clubs at the 2019 Super 4 away from the big guns like Nasarawa Amazon's, Bayelsa Queens, Rivers Angels, Delta Queens and Sunshine Queens. 

For the first time Edo Queens, Ibom Angels, Adamawa Queens and Confluence Queens all have opportunities to qualify for the most prestigious play offs in the country. 

*EXIT OF ANAM IMO, RASHEEDAT AJIBADE, PEACE EFIH, CHRISTY UCHEIBE, CHARITY RUEBEN*

The focus with clearly be on the big teams and the calibre of players they posses. Star studded Bayelsa Queens, Rivers Angels and Nasarawa Amazons have all it takes to start well in the league. However with the exit of Anam Imo, Rasheedat Ajibade, Peace Efih, Christy Ucheibe and others to top European clubs, the focus now will clearly be on some younger players to establish themselves this season.

Maryann Ezeanagu, Anjor Mary, Christopher Precious, Rafiat Sule, Vivian Ikechukwu, Joy Omewa, Emem Essien, Yemisi Samuel, Esther Oyenezedie and many others all have a lot to prove in the 2019 NWPL season. 

*WHAT SHOULD WE LOOK OUT FOR*?

Rivers Angels were not safisfied with their performance in the league last season. The AITEO Cup was all that came of their hoped-for a double win. More is expected from them now and they have recruited well this season hoping for the league to kick off. 

Their closest competitor in group A, Delta Queens has hired a new manager, George Emenetie who is ambitious and wants to play at the Super 4. 

Adamawa Queens and Edo Queens look good to go in group B, 

while Group C remains the toughest group with Bayelsa Queens, Sunshine Queens and Nasarawa Amazons all jostling for just a spot for the Super 4. 

While Group D might be among these three clubs Confluence Queens, Ibom Angels and Abia Angels. 

2019 NNL Play offs: Akwa starlets dims Shooting Stars of Ibadan to qualify for their maiden NPFL season as Warri wolves,Adamawa utd and Jigawa Golden stars also make a return

Akwa starlet have gained promotion to the NPFL for the first time in history.  

They achieved this historic feat after they defeated shooting stars of Ibadan  by three goals to nil at the Stephen keshi International stadium, Asaba yesterday in one of the matches of the Nigeria National League promotion play offs.

Warri wolves also make a return three years after they were relegated from the elite football league of Nigeria football.

Warri wolves played goalless with dynamite FC and prevailed 5 -3 on penalties to book their place in the league.

Jigawa Golden stars also make a return after 7 years of Absence in the League. The team edged NAF FC by three goals to two. The Jigawa based team last played in 2012 in the league .

Adamawa United gained promotion at the expense of FRSC FC, Adamawa utd beat the Road Safety boys by two goals to one to book their slot in the NPFL after over a decade of attempts to play in the elite league since there demotion to the lower league in the year 2007

The 20 teams that would be plying their trade in 2019/2020 NPFL Season are Enyimba International
Kano Pillars, Enugu Rangers,Akwa United, Lobi Stars FC ifeanyi Ubah, Rivers United Kastina United,Nasarawa United
Sunshine Stars,Abia Warriors
Heartland Fc,Delta Force
Plateau United,Wikki Tourist
MFM FC,Akwa Starlet, Adamawa United, Jigawa Golden FC and 
Warri Wolves.

The NPFL run an abridged league last season to align with the new CAF calendar of August to May as it is being run in Europe.

The date for the 2019/2020 NPFL kick off is yet to be announced but its expected to start before the turn of the year. 

Former Super Eagles player,Mutiu Adepoju predicts great future for HIFL stars

Former Super Eagles Player and La Liga Ambassador, Mutiu Adepoju said a bright footballing career awaits the stars of the Higher Institution Football League, HIFL sportspedalng.blogspots.com can report.

He made this assertion in Ibadan,When he was answering questions from journalists after watching the games.

The mercurial midfielder, nicknamed the headmaster is confident that in no distant time some of the stars discover will represent Nigeria at international competitions. 

He  disclosed that the HiFL will help to revive the passion around school football and School sports in Nigeria, and expressed confidence that in no distant time some of the lads who perform excellently might get called up to play for the national team.

"No more competitions in schools,right from primary schools and secondary schools during our time then we used to have lots of competition.

we grew with that and we were developed that way but this time arround its be lagging i believe that with HiFL coming there will be more school competitions,there will be more interest from the  students to play football and to do sports not only football with that i believe as time goes on we can have good players in the national team." 

The HIFL started in 2018 and has been a ground for burden talents to expose their talents for scouting for bigger things.

The current striker of Kano pillars ,Emeka Ebuka was the highest goal scorer of the HIFL in 2018 and his goals have helped Kano pillars qualified for 2019/2020  Confederation of Africa Football Champions League ,CAFCLafter winning the silver medal of the 2019 NPFL championship playoffs as well as qualify the Kano b ased team for the finals of the Federation of Cup .

Many other players have secured professional contracts with NPFL and NNL teams as well semi professional sides across the country.

HiFL® is organised by PACE Sports and Entertainment Marketing in partnership with the Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA). 

The league is proudly sponsored by Stanbic IBTC, Premier Cool and Indomie Nigeria.

 The top 32 Universities from NUGA-member institutions will play over a period of 21 weeks, with the final four billed for the Agege Stadium, Lagos.