Former Games Prefect, Bendel Insurance FC player and member of the 1988 Howard University NCAA Championship Team, Mr. Monday Kanu, has urged young footballers at Benin Technical College to dream beyond the football pitch and make the most of their education and other opportunities available to them.

Kanu gave the advice as the Benin Technical College Old Students Association (BETECOSA) rewarded the school’s Governor’s Cup-winning football team with cash gifts in recognition of their achievement.

The champions were honoured at the school compound in Ugbowo, Benin, where old students gathered to celebrate the team’s triumph and encourage the young players to pursue excellence both on and off the pitch.

The gesture was made possible through contributions from Sir Ralph Karieren, Chairman, Lagos Chapter; Dr Steve Ayiyi, Class of ’83; Mr IK Osunbor, Worldwide President; and Engr Emma Monye, Chairman, Benin Chapter.

The Chairman of the Board of Technical Education was also represented at the ceremony.

Speaking on the team’s journey to victory, the Games Master and coach, Mr Sharon Akhigbe Ekhiwere, commended the players for their discipline, resilience and determination throughout the competition.

Ekhiwere urged the young footballers to sustain the same commitment and discipline as they combine their sporting careers with education.

The school principal, Mr Friday Izedonmwen, praised BETECOSA for recognising the students’ achievement, describing the celebration as a reflection of the enduring bond between the school and its old students.

The event also provided an opportunity for the old students to interact with the young champions, share memories of their days at the institution and offer words of encouragement.

The Ugbowo school compound erupted in celebration as students, old students and staff joined in the BTC chants to honour the champions.

The ceremony ended with the presentation of cash gifts to the victorious players and renewed calls for the students to sustain the discipline and determination that brought them the Governor Cup title.