By Akila Matawal
All is set for the kick off of the first edition of the Ibom Annual Scouting Program – an initiative of Leon Sport International, in collaboration with the OBA (Obong Bassey Albert) Youth Initiative.
The program kicks of on Monday, November 14, at the Senator Bassey Albert Akpan (OBA) Multipurpose Sports Complex, Ifa Ikot Akpan, Uyo.
Retired Slovenian referee and chief scout, Damir Skomina, who officiated the 2017 UEFA Europa League final between Ajax and Manchester United, and the 2019 UEFA Champions League final between Liverpool and Tottenham, among other top football encounters, will lead other scouts from Europe to the six-day event.
Already, 20 teams are set to feature in the program which is exclusive for players between ages 16-19.
Ngadiuba Football Academy (Uruan), Willbros FC, Eagle Eye Football Academy (Uyo), Uchecaria Football Academy (Aba), Immortality Football Academy (Uyo), FC Rising, Carabana Football Academy (Uyo), Topflight Football Club, Nordic Football Academy (Nsit Ibom), Campos FC (Enugu), Obiaba Football Academy, Pillars Academy, Supreme Kings Football Academy (Umuahia) Blessed Stars Football Academy (Uyo) Sir Monty FC (Ikpe Mbak Eyop), Young Talented FA (Aba), Olegacy Football Academy, Hope of Glory (Calabar) Leon Football Academy and Diamond Stars FC will be on parade.
It will be an action-packed program with matches holding daily at the OBA Multipurpose Sports Complex, Ifa Ikot Akpan,Uyo between 9am and 3pm.
Talented youngsters picked will have the opportunity of traveling to Europe to sign deals, undergo trials and for further development with top academies, in a move to actualize their dreams of playing professionally.