Meet John Owolabi, a 35-year-old graphics designer hailing from Osun State, whose love for football knows no bounds.
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While primarily showcasing his skills as an attacking midfielder/supporting striker in the MD’s Cup FMCEB, John’s passion for the beautiful game goes far beyond his local league involvement. Despite lacking experience playing for an official club, his dedication to football began at the tender age of 12 and has remained unwavering ever since.
In an exclusive interview with Sports247, John reveals that his enthusiasm and devotion for football stem from the captivating performances of professional players he witnessed on television.
For him, the joy derived from playing the sport is immeasurable. “Watching the display of professional players on screen motivated me. I am passionate about football because of the joy I derive from it,” says John.
However, when discussing grassroots football, John sheds light on the challenges faced by aspiring players. Inadequate funding, insufficient training infrastructure, a lack of moral support from parents and guardians, and the provision of high-quality football kits are just a few of the hurdles hindering the growth of grassroots football. Nevertheless, John doesn’t stop at recognizing these obstacles; he also offers thought-provoking solutions.
Recognizing the need for increased funding, John believes that the government should allocate more resources to local clubs and academies. Additionally, he highlights the pivotal role the private sector can play in supporting grassroots football. Moreover, John calls upon international sports stars to remember their own humble beginnings and extend a helping hand to aspiring players. Furthermore, he proposes the establishment of friendly matches between local teams and established clubs as a means of fostering connections and growth.
Aspiring grassroots football players can find valuable advice from John, who emphasizes the importance of self-encouragement and self-improvement on the road to success. He says “Grassroots football players only have themselves to encourage & boost in other to get to the top. Stakeholders should endeavour to seek local & international sponsorships to support grassroots players & clubs as a whole”.
He urges stakeholders to actively seek both local and international sponsorships to provide comprehensive support to grassroots players and clubs. Beyond football, John’s diverse range of hobbies includes watching movies, listening to music, reading, and engaging in conversations with members of the Fun paradise Community. This showcases his well-rounded nature and his ability to find joy in various aspects of life.
John Owolabi’s insights not only shed light on the challenges faced by grassroots football but also offer practical solutions for improvement. His unwavering passion for the sport and dedication to its development, along with his multifaceted interests, make him a truly inspiring individual.
