Monrovia, Liberia – Emmanuel Surprise Whea, president of the Liberia Kickball Federation (LKF), has stated that the organization plans to broaden its scope by implementing beach kickball and male kickball.
The statement was made during an interview conducted by Liberian journalist Mark Mongofia on behalf of the Associated Press/International Press. The short interview, which focused on the future of kickball, the only traditional sport in Liberia, was held at the SKD Kickball Pitch.
Male kickball will soon make its debut, according to President Whea, and the introduction is expected to take place at the next Knockout Finals.
“We intend to introduce male kickball at the Knockout Finals in the near future,” he said.
Additionally, he emphasized the ongoing discussions to promote Liberian kickball on a global scale. Stakeholder interest in South America has raised expectations for more extensive international participation.
Notwithstanding these goals, budgetary constraints continue to be a major obstacle. Whea pointed out that financial difficulties have been the main reason for the sport’s sluggish expansion outside of Liberia.
There was also discussion of the gender disparity among coaches. Whea gave the following response when asked why males are more likely than women to be coaches in a sport oriented around women:
“Most women tend to ask what they can get in return. On the other hand, men are more willing to coach voluntarily. However, some women are serving as coaches in the lower divisions.”
Whea thanked Zeno Group of Companies for their support to the Sub-Committee League in Montserrado and the National Lottery Authority, the official sponsor of the national league.
“We appreciate Zeno Group of Companies’ support of the lower league in Montserrado and the National Lottery Authority’s timely arrival as our official sponsor,” he stated.
When asked whether he could play the game himself, Whea responded with humility, “Yes, I can play, but I’m not as good as those who are actively participating.”
The Liberia Kickball Federation is taking ambitious measures to turn a popular national pastime into a developing sport with a worldwide presence by introducing new formats and pursuing international exposure.
Reported by: Sylvester Tamba
