BY SUNDAY AKINTOYE
Zamadek Football Academy and HB Utility Football Academy will battle for N750,000 prize money when they clash in the final of 5th edition of JOF U-13 Kids Cup scheduled for 12 May 2024 at the University of Lagos Sports Centre, Yaba, Lagos
Speaking at the press conference held on Thursday, Director of Strategic Support Services, JOF Nigeria Limited, Adeyinka Adetunji said the tournament was a platform for young footballers under the age of 13 to showcase their skills, noting that the best four teams would be rewarded financially during the final ceremony.
According to Adetunji, the champions would go home with the sum of N750,000 with a giant trophy, first runner up would pocket N500,000, while third and fourth positions would receive N350,000 and N250,000 respectively.
There monetary rewards for individual awards. These include Highest Goalscorer, Most Valuable Player and Best Goalkeeper will smile home with the sum of N25,000 each
Adetunji noted that the tournament has emerged as a catalyst for social cohesion and community engagement for the youths, insisted that the tournament has witnessed participation from hundreds of aspiring players, unveiling hidden gems, promoting sportsmanship and fair play.
In his own remark, Secretary of Lagos State Grassroots Soccer Association, Abubakre Ishola said the association is out to provide a platform for the kids to develop their talent, build character and instill passion for the game in them.
“We would like to express our profound gratitude to our sponsor, JOF Nigeria Limited for its unwavering support and commitment to youth soccer development in Lagos State for the past four years.
“Without the dedication of Dr Olusegun Olugboyegun to our course, event like this would not have been possible.
“Sir, we are truly grateful for your magnanimous support,” he said.