A female student-athlete of the University of Lagos, UNILAG Olasubomi Ogundele has offered scholarships to ten students of her alma mater- Iganmode Grammer School in Ota, a town in Ogun state.
During her visit to the school, she donated sports items, organised a lecture for the students on the topic: combining education and sport, and played a novelty match between her grassroot club- Alimosho Sports Club, and the school team.
Giving his speech, the co-founder, Alimosho football club, Mr. Teslim Sanni-Anibire advised the students to stay focused with their academics and pursuit of becoming footballer.
“There is nothing that teaches teamwork like sports. Sports teach integrity and courage, which is the ability to face one’s fear,” he said.
Akeem Onitolo, who just completed his academic voyage in UNILAG with a First Class, shared his experiences on how he was able to combine both sports and academics.
Onitolo urged them to balance their time effectively for sporting activities and academics.
“The sport does not care about my emotions. Start reading from the beginning of the semester. The more you know, the more confidence you become,” he said.
A sports journalist, Dotun Omisakin, explained that education is the foundation on which their sports career would be built on.
Commending her effort for giving back to her school since 2020, the school’s principal, Alhaji Olayinka Janto, told the school’s alumni body to consider Olasubomi as an ambassador of the school.
“I appeal to the Alunmi body to please in your next old students association meeting, make sure you recognise Olasubomi Ogundele as an ambassador of iganmode grammer school,” he said.
The convener, Olasubomi Ogundele, said her vision has been to help other young budding athletes build self-esteem and confidence in pursuing their dream.
“You play football does not mean you are not responsible. Have that determination and discipline, let the society know that you have a lot of things to offer,” She said.
About the scholarship, she explained her foundation -Olasubomi Ogundele Initiative will cover the expenses a full session bill of 5 Juniors Secondary School and 5 Senior Secondary students.