National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Chuks Peter DELTA
In a renewed effort to elevate grassroots football, the Delta State Football Association (DFA), in partnership with ACT Sports Di Oyibo and Italy’s Torino Football Academy, has taken steps to bolster the skills of local coaches, providing them with the tools needed to nurture emerging talent across the state.
During the closing of a four-day intensive coaching workshop in Kwale, Ndokwa West LGA, DFA Chairman Chief Godwin Adode, fondly known as “Atete,” expressed the association’s commitment to empowering coaches with modern skills and techniques. “It’s a new dawn for football in Delta State,” Adode declared.
“This initiative is part of our dedication to equip local coaches with the knowledge and resources they need to succeed both locally and internationally.”
He emphasized the need for continuous development, adding, “I want to assure all local coaches that initiatives like this will continue.
We are committed to providing opportunities for consistent training and exposure, much like the intensive sessions we’ve just concluded.”
The program brought together over 55 coaches from across Delta, benefiting from training led by Torino FC’s Head Coach Gabriele Maganozzi and FIGC Coach Instructor Glaudo Ferri.
Torino representatives also expressed excitement about the partnership’s potential, with Maganozzi noting, “This marks our first direct collaboration with a Nigerian football association to establish a football academy, which is a significant step for grassroots development in Delta.”
Pastor Samuel Robinson Oyibo, CEO of ACT Sports Di Oyibo Ltd and a key proponent of the initiative, emphasized the broader impact of the partnership, stating, “This is about more than football.
We are here to create opportunities, foster unity, and build lasting relationships. Football is a powerful tool for empowerment.”
Certificates of completion were awarded to participants, marking a significant step in Delta State’s vision to build a strong football foundation.
Among the distinguished guests were DFA Secretary Maria G. Di Blasi and local football leader Coach Collins, who expressed optimism for the future of football in the region.
