The third edition of the Vice Chancellor’ s Cup soccer kicked began on Monday May 5, 202, at the school mini football stadium, Main Campus, Agbor.
At the event, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Stella Chiemeke, said she was delighted to be part of the annual event which had been colourful, exciting and and full of fun.
Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Patricia Mbah, the VC stated that sports especially football, were one channel through which students showcased their hidden talents, adding that the tournament was a celebration of teamwork, sportsmanship and sports excellence .
“As we gather here today with enthusiasm and expectations from the players and fans, l wish to remind you of the importance of balancing academic pursuits and physical activities as well as social engagements”.
“Undisputably, football, in particular, unites people, teaches valuable lessons about discipline, hardwork and collaboration”.
The Vice- Chancellor made it clear that the tournament was not about winning or losing, but about a journey; the camaraderie and the memories created along the way, showcasing the university’s spirit, passion for excellence and commitment to holistic education.
She urged the participating teams to use the event as opportunity to bond with their colleagues, build relationships and foster a sense of community.
“Whether you win or lose, consider yourselves as winners. For daring to stand up and be a participant, you have already won. Cheer up your teams and demonstrate the University’s values of respect, inclusiveness and fair play”.
While commending the Students Union Government for the organizing the event, Prof. Chiemeke tasked the football officials to be watchful during the tournament in order to discover and identify young talents that would represent the Institution in future football tournaments.
The VC’s representative, Prof. Patricia Mbah took the kick-off which featured the Faculty of Arts and the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences in the opening match..
Faculty of Arts dominated the first half of the game with two early goals scored at the second and third minutes respectively, making them the earliest goals in the history of the tournament. The second half saw the two teams making frantic efforts to score but failed to convert any chance. The game ended 2( two goals ) the to nil in favour of Faculty of Arts.
The opening ceremony which recorded massive presence of football enthusiasts was watched by the Registrar, Barrister Richmond Omagbemi, the Librarian, Dr (Mrs) Vera Okonoko, Dean of Computing, Dr. Ejaita Okpako, Dean students Advisory Services, Dr. Rufus ljieh , HOD Mass Communication, Mrs Bettina Agbamu, Director Sports, Mr. Micheal Mbibi and a host of others.
The match was beamed live by the University Media Unit with commentaries anchored by Mr. Anthony Unoka and Mr. Innocent Odoemene.
Twelve Faculties are participating in the three weeks event. The Faculty of Computing is the current champion.
