CEDAR FOOTBALL ACADEMY WINS 4-NATION TOURNAMENT IN PORTHARCOURT
CEDAR FOOTBALL ACADEMY WINS 4-NATION TOURNAMENT IN PORTHARCOURT
The maiden edition of the 4-Nation Holiday Tournament in Port Harcourt for U-13 and U-10 boys, organized by Cedar Football Academy, at weekend came to a climax in grand style with Cedar Football Academy defeating King David Academy 7-6 on penalties after a one all draw.
According to XtrymeSports.blogspot.com, the competition was held at the Nigeria Television Authority football pitch in Port Harcourt on Saturday, 9th August 2025.
King David Academy found the back of the net first, and were hoping to get a double, but a revived Cedar Football Academy got back into the game and eventually got the equalizer.
Despite several efforts from both sides to increase their tally proved abortive and the game went to the shootout, with Cedar Football Academy winning 7-6.
Teams that took part are Cedar Football Academy, Kings Football Academy, Crister Football Academy, and Cedar Football Academy Team B.
Earlier, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Mr. John Ijeoma Barigha, while welcoming all participating teams and parents who came out to support their kids, expressed joy with the turnout and various support to the tournament.
While acknowledging the role the parents played, the Chairman stressed the tournament would not have been successful without them, as he promised that the next edition will be bigger and better.
Special Guest of the day, a renowned grassroots coach and football administrator, Mr. Ada Gwegwe, was full of praise to the organizers and parents of the lads for encouraging their children with their presence.
According to him, "You can only see this in Europe where parents will come as supporters clubs to cheer their own kids."
"This is encouraging, and if we must get it right in our football, then we must focus on grassroots football development"
Coach Gwegwe also emphasized that at this age, participation is the most important thing in grassroots football development.
"In grassroots football development, participation is paramount because it lays the foundation for future talent, promotes physical and mental well-being, and strengthens communities. It's not just about finding the next superstar; it's about passion and love for the sport, developing life skills, and creating a positive environment for all involved."
Coach Ada Gwegwe thanked and appreciated the Director of Cedar Football Academy of Port Harcourt for his love and support for grassroots football development in Rivers State and Nigeria at large.
The Coach said Yenagoa City Football Academy, in Bayelsa state will enter into a partnership agreement with Cedar Football Academy to promote the development of grassroots football in the Niger Delta and Nigeria generally.
While appreciating Coach Ada Gwegwe for honouring his invitation the Director of Cedar Academy, Mr. James Ladi, said he started the Cedar Football Academy because of his love and passion for kids and grassroots football development.
Responding to the partnership offer by the CEO of Yenagoa City Football Academy, Mr. James Ladi said the move will enhance the growth of his Academy and create more opportunities for young talents.
Coach of Cedar Academy, Ume Ero, also praised his lads for winning the competition and said this was as a result of hard work and dedication of the players in training.
He also thanked the Director of Cedar Academy and all the support given, not forgetting all the wonderful parents for their role in supporting their children.
Dignitaries present at the one-day 4-Nation tournament included Mr. Frank Chiorlu, CEO F.J. Marriott Hotel and Suites, Mr. Charles Amechi, CEO Port Rock Hotel and Suites, Engr. Eze Okere, Coordinating Member, Rivers State Ministry of Works, parents of the kids, and other dignitaries.
© XtrymeSports, 2025
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