In a candid and exclusive interview with Sports247, Aondokator Joel Iortsor, a 29-year-old passionate athlete, shared fascinating insights into his sports journey and the profound impact of grassroots sports on his life.
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An ardent lover of both basketball and football, Joel’s affair with sports began at a tender age, and it has shaped his life in remarkable ways.
“Since I was a preteen, sports have been an integral part of my life. I’ve loved sports from way back,” Joel proudly proclaimed, his eyes shining with enthusiasm as he recalled his early days as a sports enthusiast.
When asked about the sports he actively pursued, he stated, “I’m involved in basketball and football, but these days, I find myself more drawn to football.”
Digging deeper into the roots of his sporting passion, Joel revealed, “Watching sportsmen on TV and witnessing how they gracefully moved their bodies to achieve extraordinary feats amazed me. I wanted to emulate them and become a part of that world.
Moreover, the knowledge that sports played a vital role in maintaining fitness and overall well-being further inspired my interest.”
Today, Joel juggles his passion for sports with his professional career as a quality analyst in an FMCG company. Despite the demands of his job, he remains steadfast in his dedication to sports and grassroots development.
Joel’s journey into the world of grassroots sports is an inspiring tale of discovery and self-development. He recounted, “Growing up in my neighborhood and school, football was a common pastime. I played with the boys in the community, and the excitement it brought fueled my desire to emulate the football stars I read about in The Guardian and Vanguard newspapers or saw on TV.”
As he progressed through secondary school, his interests expanded to include basketball, and he found time after preps to indulge in the sport.
Though he wasn’t selected to represent his school officially, this experience instilled in him a profound love for athleticism and fitness, attributes that would later serve him well in his athletic endeavors.
Participating in grassroots sports tournaments played a pivotal role in shaping Joel’s overall development as an athlete. He expressed, “The joy of competing in these tournaments and the exhilaration of victory made me appreciate the multifaceted benefits of sports – from its positive impact on health to the sheer joy it brings. It also sparked a desire in me to contribute to the growth of sports in my own way.”
With an unwavering belief in the significance of grassroots sports programs, he emphasized their crucial role in nurturing young talent and laying the foundation for a strong sporting community. He fervently stated, “The importance of grassroots sports cannot be overstated.
These programs create a platform for young talents to realize their potential and develop their skills. They deserve the support and encouragement of all, as they represent the future of sports.”
When asked about the key elements that contribute to an effective grassroots sports program, Joel offered insightful perspectives. “Proper planning, adequate financing, and access to good sports facilities are essential. Additionally, effective publicity and sensitization, along with attractive reward systems, go a long way in motivating young athletes to participate wholeheartedly.
Drawing a comparison between grassroots sports and elite-level sports, he highlighted the disparities, stating, “Elite-level sports undoubtedly receive more attention and resources.
However, grassroots sports hold the advantage of unearthing raw, home-based talents free from influences like nepotism or political agendas. For scouts, it presents a unique opportunity to discover young talents brimming with potential.”
Joel’s commitment to giving back to the community through grassroots sports development initiatives is commendable. He passionately shared, “Yes, I have been actively involved in organizing an annual football tournament in my community where the casual staff, mostly natives, get to showcase their skills and compete for coveted prizes. The unity and enthusiasm this event fosters in the community are heartwarming. I look forward to making it bigger and better this year.”
Speaking about his vision for the future of grassroots sports, Joel expressed, “More sensitization efforts are needed in communities, and partnerships with companies through their CSR can create more platforms for aspiring athletes to shine.
Greater awareness will attract more collaborations, ultimately fostering the development of young talent.”
Beyond the physical aspects, Joel acknowledged that grassroots sports have had a profound impact on his personal growth, enhancing his leadership and management skills.
He firmly believes that sports serve as a powerful unifying force within communities, promoting well-being and generating numerous positive outcomes.
In conclusion, Joel passionately believes that grassroots sports are the cornerstone of a nation’s sporting success on the international stage. By investing in grassroots sports, national sports development agencies open the doors to a realm of endless possibilities where young talents can shine and lead their nation to glory.
As Aondokator Joel Iortsor continues to inspire others through his unwavering passion for sports and dedication to grassroots development, his journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of sports in shaping lives and communities alike.
