By Aduku Aruwa
Chief Coach of Wrestling in Kogi State, Ojo Ologunja, has begun sensitisation of students in various primary and secondary schools on the need to embrace as well as pursue careers in sports.
The project is part of effort to take grassroots sport development back to the schools while at the same time enlightening parents on the need to recognise the ability of sports to create pathways to prosperity in present times.
During the first phase of the sensitisation campaign, Coach Ologunja was able to visit, Glorious Faith Academy along Barrack Road, Lokoja, Confluence Secondary School, Gadumo, UBE Holy Trinity school, Crowther Memorial College, Lokoja and Bishop Delises College, Lokoja.
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The Deputy Director of Sports, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development in Kogi State, Ologunja shared his vast knowledge of the transformative power of sports.
Speaking at the Career Day event at Glorious Faith Academy in Lokoja, Coach Ologunja passionately encouraged parents to support their children’s ambition to be athletes stressing that sporting activities can serve as a stepping stone for youths in the country to achieve their aspirations and reach their full potential.
According to him, sports today has become a booming business that contributes to gross earnings of many countries. And that some countries now leverage on sports as a platform for youth empowerment.
He took the students through the basics of identifying the various forms of sports and athletic outfits or attires.
The wrestling coach enlightened parents and students on the integral part sports plays in promoting healthy living that contributes to the overall well being of the individual. Just as he highlighted the ability of sports to create pathways to prosperity for youths.
“Sports gives you the chance to stand before kings, governors, and presidents,” Ologunja told the audience of young aspiring athletes.
Ologunja emphasised that a career in sports is more than just a passion; adding that it can provide long-term fame, income, career opportunity and stability.
“Contrary to some beliefs, sports are not just a pastime—they’re a legitimate and rewarding career path that can provide financial gain, personal growth, and professional success,” he added.
The coach also made it clear that sports is a thriving industry that offers multiple career paths, from wrestling to football, table tennis, swimming, athletics, badminton, and more.
By encouraging their children to explore these fields, parents can help them unlock their potential for success both on and off the field, he stressed.
For parents looking to give their children the best future, supporting their involvement in sports is a step in the right direction—a choice that could lead to fame, financial success, and a lifetime of opportunities, coach Ologunja remarked
While describing funding as a great challenge to the “Catch Them Young” sensitisation campaign, he used the medium to appeal to privileged persons and corporate organisations for support to sustain the programme.
The sensitisation campaign represents a significant step forward in repositioning grassroots sports for talents discovery and nurturing.
