At least two hundred amateur football clubs in Bayelsa State have registered for this year’s Governor’s Cup which kicked off yesterday in Yenagoa.
The Governor of the state, Senator Douye Diri, has called on the participating clubs to imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship, fair play and ensure they give their best throughout the competition.
Diri, who stated this yesterday during the official kick off ceremony of the grassroots competition at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex in Yenagoa, urged the youths to display their talents in football as several international scouts will be on hand to select the best among them.
He described sports as an integral part of every society and expressed optimism that the tourney will not only curb youth restiveness, but create opportunities for exceptional players who may want to pursue a career in football.
He said “I implore all of you who are participating to embrace fair play. I wish all of you the participating teams good luck.
“This is a competition that you need to put in everything. You wouldn’t know those who are coming to watch you. You wouldn’t know those who are coming to scout for players. This is a competition that can expose you nationally and internationally.”
Bayelsa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Daniel Igali, attributed the success of the sporting sector in the state to the commitment and support of the Governor who was once Commissioner for Sport in the State.