By Daily Sports Nigeria on June 12, 2024

In the bustling streets of Ibadan, Nigeria, 13-year-old Azeez Olamiposi is making strides towards football stardom, driven by his unwavering passion and determination.

Olamiposi, born on the 20th of November, 2010, found his love for football at a young age. Growing up in Olorunsogo, Ibadan, he was inspired by the neighbourhood football games he watched as a child.

“I started playing football at the age of seven. I admired football when I saw a lot of people playing it in my neighbourhood. When I started, it gave me more joy than anything else. That’s why I decided to become a footballer and approached a coach to start training. I didn’t try any other sport; it has always been football for me,” he told PUNCH Sports Extra.

Olamiposi’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Initially, he struggled to gain acceptance from his teammates due to his skills.

“When I started, it was very hard to play with my teammates because they didn’t like how I played. Back then, I wasn’t good enough, so I made up my mind to improve. Now, I am much better, and I am loved by my teammates and coaches,” he said with a sense of accomplishment.

Despite these hurdles, Olamiposi has shown remarkable resilience and determination, qualities that have endeared him to his coaches and peers.

The right-back has been fortunate to have the support of his parents, who have stood by him throughout his journey. However, there were times when financial constraints made it difficult for them to continue supporting his dreams.

“My parents supported me in the beginning but my saddest moment was when my parents told me they couldn’t continue sponsoring me. I felt like quitting then, but I believe in my dreams,” Olamiposi said.

Despite these setbacks, the teenager has achieved significant milestones. He has won several trophies for his team and local government, including the Ona Ara Youth League with A.A Aztec Football Academy in Moniya Ibadan and the Inter Local Government Cup with Olorunsogo LGA last year. Additionally, he won the Aiki Sarafa Ramadan Cup competition with his former team, Standard FC, in 2019.

Balancing his education with his football ambitions has been challenging for Azeez, especially during his time at Treasure Model School, where he recently completed his secondary education.

“Mixing school and sport was very hard for me sometimes. It is better now that I am done with secondary school, but back then, I would come back from school, go to training, wash my uniform, get some sleep for two hours, and then do my assignments,” he added.

Azeez is inspired by England and Manchester City star Kyle Walker who plays the same position as the teenager saying, “I really admire the playing style of Kyle Walker  and I want to win like he does.”

Olamiposi aspires to achieve great heights in his football career with the national team and also in Europe.

“I have many goals to achieve, and I will be happy and glad to make them come true. My dream is to play for my country at all levels, U-15, U-17, U-20 and senior level. I also want to achieve more goals in Europe,” he told PUNCH Sports Extra.

Azeez’s coach, Olaniyi Babatunde, the manager of A.A. Aztec Football Academy, sees great potential in him.

“Azeez Olamiposi is a promising and very talented player. He is very respectful and disciplined. From the first day I met him, I knew he would catch up with time, and he is doing that now,” Coach Babatunde told PUNCH Sports Extra.

“I am now the one sponsoring him, and I have been like a father to him and I know it is worth it because of his discipline.”

As Olamiposi continues to chase his dreams on the football pitch, his story serves as a testament to the power of determination and passion. With his talent and dedication, he is well on his way to achieving his goals and making a mark in the world of football.

Source Punch Ng

Posted June 12, 2024

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