In the heart of a closely-knit community, where neighbours know each other by name and community spirit runs deep, The birth of a Football Club is heralded. It is the new sound, the beacon of hope for rising stars, the newest rallying point bringing the community people together in a way that transcends the mere love for the sport. Utoka FC, situated in Utoka community at the heart of the Dukedom under the peaceful leadership of HrH, Amb. Airomwanbor Ogiemwonyi who has described the Football Club as a symbol of unity, passion, and pride for his people . With its emergence, the community has shown potential of becoming the sports hub in Ovia North-East where it is resident. Utoka FC surfaced in February 2024, with HRH. Amb Airomwanbor Ogiewonyi, the Enogie of Utoka community, as the grand patron.
Utoka FC is a branch of Heritage and Sports Management and Consultancy Ltd. The club comprises of Under 13, Male and Female, Under 16 Male and Female and a senior Male team providing an opportunity for indigenes and residents to showcase their talent and passion for the beautiful game of Football. The management of Heritage and sports management has commended the Enogie of Utoka and the Youth for rallying behind the club, contributing their time and resources to ensure the smooth take-off of the club Beyond discovering talent, Utoka FC has taken it upon itself the responsibility to nurture the enthusiasm for football among the younger generation of the Dukedom.
With support from Ex International Football star, Mr. Edema Fuludu, plans for a football clinic for the club’s Coaches and Players is in top gear also Regular training sessions and development programs will be established to help the children channel their skills and enthusiasm towards a positive direction. Through its dedicated coaching staff, the club seeks to instill important values such as discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship in the budding footballers, preparing them for both footballing success and life’s challenges. Utoka FC is counting on the support of CSED Initiative and other well meaning sons and daughters of the Dukedom for it’s successful development in the area sporting scholarships, kits and other opportunities that will benefit the players .
The club’s impact, though few weeks old is already felt beyond the confines of the football pitch. As we move forward, the club aims at actively involving itself in community initiatives, organizing fundraisers, charity matches, partnerships with organizations and hosting football tournaments, which will attracts visitors from neighboring communities using this means for generating economic opportunities for local businesses and the community, showcasing the village as an attractive destination. Utoka FC is much more than a sports team in Utoka; it is a symbol of unity and pride. The club will be a central element of Utoka community, and as it continues to rise, it will exemplify the power of sport to not only unify individuals but also strengthen the ties that bind an entire community together.
By Princess Omoyemwen Adeyinka-Afolabi
