ohnsonville hosts tourney in honor of Liberian professional

A youth group in Lower Johnsonville, Monsterrado County is organizing a three-week (November 6-29, 2016) soccer tournament in honor of United States-based Liberian footballer Emmanuel N. Elkins.

Organizer Mr. Joseph K. Dahn said, Elkins has brought pride not only to the community, but the entire Liberia by signing a two-year professional contract with 2nd division American club Maryland Blues.

The deal is reportedly value US$100, 000. Speaking via mobile from America Elkins said he is very happy for his community to recognize his hard work and organize a tournament in his honor.

He promised to be in Liberia before the climax of the league on November 29, to participate in the competition.  “Other Liberians can do the same or do better them me, they only need to be focus, but I will be in Monrovia before the final of the competition to participate and encourage my friends about life,” he said.

Meanwhile, eight teams are expected to battle in the Emmanuel Elkins’ Tournament, which kicks off on 6 November. The Liberian played both in both the U.S. soccer federation and the American soccer league (ASL) as well as the league of Maryland.

Prior to the summer, the club has since made the player a prime target and wasted no time in offering him a two-year contract based on his skills, speed and good goal scoring ability, which the club hope will add extra impetus to their attacking prowess during the current season.

Youths of Johnsonville are delighted over the achievement of the former “Most Valuable Player” of their community. They said his appearance on the internal scene serves as a motivation for them.

Mr. Dahn said they are using the tournament to disabuse minds of young people in the community about dangerous drugs and stress the importance of education. 

By Sally Gaye