In an exclusive discussion with Sports 247, Omotayo Orogbemi, recognized as Coach TY and affiliated with MSS FC in Mushin, offered insights into the OWO UNITY CUP tournament, currently underway at the renowned Eko Boys’ High School. Coach TY is a key organizer of this community-focused event.
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Coach TY introduced the fundamental objective of the OWO UNITY CUP: “The OWO UNITY CUP is dedicated to the advancement of the community and its welfare. It signifies a return of gratitude to the community by Owolabi, a former player of MSS FC who has now taken on the role of giving back.
This is the tournament’s second iteration. The inaugural edition took place last year and involved teams exclusively from the Eko boys’ field vicinity in the community where Owo grew up.
With this year’s edition, we have expanded our horizons, inviting teams from various parts of Mushin. We are proud to have 16 teams participating in this second edition.”
Reflecting on the tournament’s progression, Coach TY provided a comprehensive overview of the schedule: “Today marks the culmination of the preliminary stage with a knockout match. The draws were conducted on Monday, August 14th, and the tournament kicked off on Wednesday, August 16th.
The opening ceremony featured the defending champions from the previous year, the All Stars FC. Subsequently, we played two matches on the second day, another two on the third day, and similarly, two matches on the fourth day. As for today, which is the final day of the preliminary stage, one match was played. The quarter-finals are set to commence on Wednesday, August 23rd. An exciting matchup awaits us, as the reigning champions, the All Stars FC, will face off against the MSS FC in the quarter-final clash.
The tournament is scheduled to conclude on Thursday, August 31st.”
Significantly, Coach TY highlighted the distinct aspect of Owolabi’s personal sponsorship: “The tournament stands as a testament to Owolabi’s sole sponsorship. There are no external sponsors involved; Owolabi is the sole benefactor supporting this event. Notably, no registration fees were collected from the participating teams. Registration was offered entirely free of charge. This practice mirrors that of last year’s edition.”
Considering forthcoming iterations, Coach TY elaborated on the evolving prize structure: “Currently, cash prizes are awarded to the first and second-place winners. In subsequent editions, we aim to expand the prize distribution to include the third-place finisher, demonstrating our commitment to continuous improvement. Furthermore, prizes will be presented to the best goalkeeper, coach, best-behaved team, top goal scorer, and the most valuable player of the tournament.”
Anticipating enhanced coverage in the future, Coach Orogbemi unveiled aspirations for enriched streaming capabilities: “As part of our strategic vision, we are exploring the possibility of streaming all matches in the forthcoming editions, contingent on securing adequate funding. It is important to note that the climactic final match of the current tournament will be streamed live.”
The OWO UNITY CUP tournament, masterminded by Coach TY and some other coaches, exemplifies the unifying force of grassroots football, advocating for communal harmony, and nurturing the spirit of benevolence towards one’s place of origin.
