Preparations are in top gear, as the maiden edition of the Oyo ‘Schools’ Sport Foundation Governors Cup’ kicks off on Monday, the 13th of May 2024.
Unveiling the programme of the Competition, during a press conference in Ibadan, Founder of Schools’ Sport Foundation, Organisers of the Oyo Governor’s Cup, Yomi Elijah promised football-loving fans that the inaugural edition of the tournament will be filled with premium excitement.
According to him, the tournament is aimed at reviving school sports and also to nurture young talents in secondary schools across the state.
Yomi Elijah, a UK trained Football Coach reiterated his outfits commitment to seeing the young ones, become great in the nearest future.
“The Oyo State Governors Cup is just one of many to come, when it comes to Schools Sports in Oyo State. We have plans on ground to involve other sports as times go on.
“We are poised to give the best and allow Secondary School Students showcase their God-given talents through this competition.
“”I would like to take a moment to recognize the incredible team that has worked tirelessly to make this competition a reality. Your dedication and expertise have been invaluable, and we appreciate your hard work. Thank you for your unwavering support!”
“To our schools, we encourage you to embrace sports as an essential part of your curriculum. Participating in sports not only helps and physically and pupils grow physically but also mentally, teaching valuable life skills like teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. Let us work together to nurture the next generation of leaders and champions!”
He concluded.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Education, Professor Salihu Adelabu, assured all participants of safety, before and during the Competition. He also thanked the sponsor, Peculiar Ultimate Concerns for the massive initiative.
“I want to assure all participants, and spectators that the safety and security of everyone involved in the Oyo State Governor’s Cup is our top priority.
“We have worked closely with the relevant authorities to ensure that proper security measures are in place during the competition.
“As stakeholders in the education and development of our youth, we are committed to providing not only a secure environment but also moral support to all participants.”
Oyo State Sports Commissioner, Hon. wasilat Adegoke, showed alot of optimism about the Competition, stating that, it would be an opportunity for students to showcase their talents.
“We are grateful to have the support of the state Government and Peculiar Ultimate Concerns for this initiative. Their willingness to invest in the development of our youths through sports is commendable. We encourage other organisations to follow suit and support innovations like this, which can have a positive impact on our communities.”
Former Super Eagles and RealMadrid Midfielder, Mutiu Adepoju was also full of praises for the organisers and Sponsor of the Governor’s Cup. The Laliga Chief made emphasis on the reason, schools Sports should be encouraged in secondary schools.
“I played Governor’s Cup (Principals Cup) as a student of Propect High School and I can boldly say we had many under age national competitions back then. If things are done rightly, we won’t have problems.”
“I want to appreciate Peculiar Ultimate Concerns, the Oyo State Government and other relevant bodies for making this a reality in Oyo State.”
The football competition will start with Local Government Eliminations between 13th – 22nd May, 2024,
Zonal Eliminations come up from Tuesday 28th – Friday 31st May, 2024
Screening and Accreditation commence on Wednesday 5th June 2024 While the State Finals (Quarter Finals) will be held at Ikolaba High School with 2 Matches played at the venue on the 5th of June 2024.
Loyola College will also host two 2 Matches on the 6th of June 2024.
The Governor’s Cup Semi-Finals will come up at the Lekan Salami Stadium on the 7th of June, 2024.
The Third Place and Finals will be held on the 8th and 9th June, 2024 respectively at Lekan Salami Stadium while 10th June, 2024 has been chosen as the Tentative date for the Final match.
The competition starts from the Local Governments of the State to the Zonal Stage, comprising the following Zones.
1. Oyo
2. Ogbomoso I
3. Ibadan I
4. Ibadan II
5. Ibadan III
6. Ibarapa
7. Oke – Ogun I
8. Oke – Ogun II
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