Sitanunku FC on 16 May 2014 drew 1-all with Tubakolong FC in the opening game of the first edition of the Upper Nuimi District Sports Committee football tournament sponsored by Bakary Sonko, a native of the district.
The match was played at the Pakau Njogu Football Field.
Modou Lamin Sarr, chairman of the Upper Niumi District Sports Committee, speaking to reporters, said the tournament began with 15 teams who each paid a registration fee of D1,000.
The sponsor bought them a trophy costing D8,500 with three footballs to start with (each football cost D1,000), he said, adding that he also gave them D10,000 to add to the package, and they (the committee) were yet to decide on the cash prizes to be awarded at the end of the tournament.
He added that the benefactor sponsored the tournament, supported the youth, showcased their talents, united them and contributed his quota in other ways to the development of sport in the district.
One of their challenges is bringing youth together as it requires finance, he said, describing the committee, elected into office last January, as young and financially handicapped.
The aim of the committee is to develop sport in the district - not only football but also wrestling, martial art, karate, swimming, chess among other sports, he noted, saying that in their drive to register success they have even set up various organising committees for the different sports disciplines.
As a district level they are answerable to the regional level, he pointed out, saying their election into office was conducted by the regional level, who serves as a link between them and the Gambia Football Association (GFF).
They have a representative in the regional committee and have been attending various meetings at Kerewan, he went on.
They have also been receiving advice from the regional body regarding the running of sport in the district, he also said.
Mr Sarr described sport as a game loved by the youth, hence they deemed it necessary to support the youth to achieve their dreams as well as to contribute to the development of the nation.
“The nation cannot develop without the youth who have a stake in the development of the country,” he remarked.
People expect a lot from them in developing sport within the district, he pointed out, saying they would do their utmost best to leave up to expectations.
“We cannot satisfy everybody because it is not easy leading youths, as people have different views,” he remarked.
In order to stage a successful tournament free from violence, they have contacted the Police in the area and discussed with them the security of the tournament, he stated, urging the youth to be disciplined and respectful throughout the competition.
With discipline by the youth their work as a committee and the service of all involved in the tournament would be easy.
He as well appealed to others for support in emulation of Mr Sonko who has given them some support, as Niumi belongs to all of them.
There have been a lot of developments within the district and region at large since the Gambia Football Federation (GFF) came into office as they have been receiving guidance from the GFF, he concluded.
