The Elerin of Erin Ile, Oba Abdul Ganiyu Ibrahim Ajibola, Olusookun II (MFR), has commended players and officials of Moje Queens for winning the Ibadan zone of the Airtel Rising Stars (ARS) Season III.
The monarch while speaking by phone on hearing the news of the victory of the Kwara State representatives stated that sport has become a source of youth empowerment just as he emphasised the need for the players to combine sport with academic to become resourceful professionals.
"I am happy that our team emerged winners of this competition and I want to commend Airtel for providing this platform for these teenage players to exhibit their skills.
"We are going to do everything humanly possible to encourage these young girls. Our team went to Germany twice this year and came back with trophies and now, winning this Airtel Rising Stars is a morale booster for everybody. I also salute the resilience of the coaches who are handling these girls, this victory is indeed a reward of excellence.
"Our vision is to see that these girls become educated professional footballers in the future. I have made them to realise that education is important and that if you are not educated, you could end up in working for your manager as a footballer," said Oba Ajibola, who is the life patron of Moje Queens.
Moje Queens defeated their counterparts from Oyo State 6-5 via penalties in the final of the zone decided at the main bowl of the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan.
Also, Daramosu Ganiyat of Moje Queens bagged the highest goal scorer's award while her teammate, Abubakar Ajimoh was adjudged the best goalkeeper of the tournament.
Coach Samuel Abejide expressed joy at the feat of her team.
"Really, I'm not surprised that we won this competition because my team has an edge on their opponents. We played more as a team than any of our opponents. The exposure my players have had in playing in Germany twice this year is a plus for my team and I thank God for this success," Abejide said.
Meanwhile, players selected from the various zones would form the Nigerian boys and girls team for the Airtel Rising Stars Africa Football Championship scheduled to hold from September 16 to 22 in Lagos.
Caption:
From left: Captain of Moje Queens, Kafayat Shittu, Coach Samuel Abejide
(Middle) and Ganiyat Daramosu who emerged goal queen of ARS 3 Ibadan zone pose after their victory at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan.
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