By: alusinerehme.wilson@awokonewspaper.sl
MAKENI, SIERRA LEONE – Team managers and coaches of prominent provincial clubs participating in the Sierra Leone Premier League, including Diamond Stars and Wusum Stars from Kono and Makeni, gathered at the Southern Arena to witness Bo Rangers’ historic CAF Champions League match against LISCR FC of Liberia.
In attendance were coaches, managers, government officials, sports journalists, and avid football enthusiasts who commended Bo Rangers’ management for achieving a remarkable feat as the first Sierra Leonean club to host a continental competition in their home stadium.
Coaches and managers from other provincial elite football clubs expressed their pride in Bo Rangers, acknowledging their pioneering role in club management and infrastructure development within Sierra Leone. They shared their thoughts with Awoko Newspaper at the Southern Arena, highlighting their admiration for Bo Rangers’ contribution to national football history.
Bo Rangers Chairman Babadi Kamara’s investment in the construction of the Southern Arena Stadium, boasting a capacity of 6,000 spectators, has been lauded as a significant morale boost for football clubs in Sierra Leone. It is particularly noteworthy in light of the aging infrastructural challenges that have plagued the nation, including the absence of stadiums meeting the stringent requirements of CAF and FIFA.
Tito Cole, the head coach of Diamond Stars in Kono, who also boasts experience coaching RSLAF, expressed his inspiration and commitment to support Bo Rangers and emulate their best practices. He stated, “What I witnessed here on that historic Sunday, August 19, has inspired me to redouble my efforts with my players. Our aim is to compete vigorously for the 2023/24 Sierra Leone Premier League title, taking cues from Bo Rangers’ exemplary achievements.”
Likewise, Mohamed Lamin Kamara, the head coach, and Isa Koroma, the team manager of Wusum Stars in Makeni, shared sentiments similar to those of Coach Cole. They underlined their dedication to not only clinching the 2023/24 national championship but also revealed their ambitious plans to develop a modern sports facility in the coming years, mirroring the accomplishments of their counterparts at Bo Rangers.
The historic event at the Southern Arena serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for provincial clubs, propelling them to strive for excellence in Sierra Leonean football. ARW/24/8/2023
