Bayelsa United Technical Adviser, Ladan Bosso, has expressed optimism that the forthcoming Governor Douye Diri pre-season football tournament will serve as an ideal preparatory ground for his team ahead of the new season commencing on August 31, 2024.
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Bosso is determined to utilize the tournament to refine his strategies and transform Bayelsa United into a competitive team ready to vie for titles in the upcoming season.
“The pre-season tournament is a crucial period for us to test our readiness and make necessary adjustments,” Bosso remarked. “We aim to turn Bayelsa United into a formidable side capable of challenging for titles.”
Bosso also praised Governor Douye Diri for sponsoring the tournament, highlighting the governor’s commitment to promoting sports, particularly football, within the state.
“The governor’s support is a testament to his dedication to giving sports its rightful place in our society,” Bosso added.
The Ministry of Sports Development and the Bayelsa State Football Association, in collaboration with Prosperity Cup organizers and Red Sapphire, a sports management consultant, have finalized plans to host the inaugural Governor Douye Diri pre-season football tournament in Yenagoa.
Mr. Diseye Nwankwe, Secretary of the Local Organizing Committee, briefed newsmen at the Samson Siasia Stadium, outlining the schedule and objectives of the event.
The tournament will take place from Sunday, August 11 to Sunday, August 18, 2024, with participating teams expected to arrive on the opening day.
Nwankwe emphasized that the tournament’s primary aim is to ensure the teams, especially Bayelsa United, are in top form for the 2024/2025 season.
“The essence of the tournament is to prepare the teams for the upcoming season, foster stronger relationships, and provide a platform to identify and recruit new talents,” Nwankwe stated.
“It will also help players develop mental toughness and prepare them for the pressures of top-flight competition.”
Featuring eight teams from the Nigerian top league, the tournament will include Rivers United, Sunshine Stars, Abia Warriors, Akwa United, Bayelsa United, Insurance of Benin, Kwara United, Warri Wolves, Shooting Stars, Coal City United FC, and Krusaders. Participating teams will receive an appearance fee of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (#500,000.00) and free accommodation.
Other notable coaches, including Imama Amapakabo (Abia Warriors), Finidi George (Rivers United), Muhammed Babaganaru (Akwa United), Kennedy Boboye (Sunshine Stars), Monday Odigie (Insurance), Austine Johnny (Warri Wolves), Gbenga Ogunbote (Shooting Stars), and Genesis Suomokumo (Krusaders Feeders FC), are expected to lead their squads in this significant pre-season event.
With these preparations underway, Bayelsa United and other participating teams look forward to a highly competitive and productive tournament, setting the stage for an exciting football season ahead.
