Former Super Eagles internationals Dr. Felix Owolabi and Ike Shorunmu have applauded the Chairman of the Pillar of Sports Youth Development Foundation, Mr. Temitope Ademola Obideyi, for initiating a programme to honour and celebrate legends of Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan while they are still alive.
The initiative, which is being implemented in partnership with the management of Shooting Stars, seeks to recognise the contributions of former players whose dedication and sacrifices helped shape the history and achievements of the Oluyole Warriors.
Obideyi, widely known as the Pillar of Sports in Oyo State and a retired footballer, believes that football legends deserve to be celebrated during their lifetime rather than waiting until their demise before acknowledging their contributions.
Under the programme, two club legends will be honoured during every home league fixture of Shooting Stars as part of efforts to preserve the club’s rich heritage and appreciate its distinguished personalities.
The initiative commenced on Sunday during Shooting Stars’ impressive 4-1 victory over Abia Warriors, with Owolabi among the football icons recognised for his invaluable contributions to the club.
Owolabi, a member of Nigeria’s victorious squad at the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations, expressed delight at the recognition, which featured the presentation of a Shooting Stars replica home jersey, an award, and a cash gift.
The former international, who also played a significant role in Shooting Stars’ continental success, was part of the team that won the 1992 African Cup Winners’ Cup, now known as the CAF Confederation Cup.
The triumph remains one of the most celebrated achievements in the history of the Ibadan-based club.
Similarly, former Super Eagles goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu was honoured under the initiative in recognition of his contributions to Nigerian football.
Shorunmu received a Shooting Stars replica home jersey, an award, and a cash gift in appreciation of his service and dedication to the game.
The former Nigerian international expressed gratitude for the recognition and praised Obideyi for what he described as a thoughtful initiative that celebrates football personalities while they are still alive to appreciate the honour.
He also offered prayers for God’s continued blessings upon Obideyi, wishing him greater success in his career and future endeavours.
The initiative underscores the commitment of the Pillar of Sports Youth Development Foundation and Shooting Stars management to celebrating the club’s football icons, preserving its rich history and inspiring younger generations through the achievements of past players.
By honouring these legends during home league matches, the programme is expected to strengthen the bond between the club, its former players, and supporters while ensuring that the contributions of those who shaped Shooting Stars’ illustrious history are never forgotten.
Packaged by Olanrewaju Agiri
