In a vibrant display of grassroots talent and community spirit, WILL Sponsored Better Tomorrow Football Academy Abuko emerged triumphant as champions of the U13 KM Regional Academy Tournament, capping off their campaign with a memorable coronation at the KMC UN Park in Kotu on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
The young stars from Abuko lifted the coveted trophy amid scenes of pure joy, pride, and fulfillment, marking a significant milestone for youth football in the KM Region. The event, organized by the KM Regional Football Academies Association (KMRFAA), showcased the growing commitment to nurturing talent at the base level and provided an inspiring platform for dozens of aspiring players.
Vice President Abdourahman Bah stepped in admirably for President Paul Joof to lead the colorful ceremony, which featured dignitaries including National U-17 Coach Yahya Manneh, U-17 Team Manager MO Njie, KMRFA President Mustapha Jallow, Secretary General George Gomez, and representatives from the Gambia Coaches Association. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as glittering trophies, medals, jerseys, balls, bibs, and cones were presented to the winners and runners-up.
Better Tomorrow FA claimed the U13 title, receiving a giant trophy, three balls, a set of jerseys, bibs, and cones. Their counterparts, Onside FA, similarly lifted the U15 crown. Runners-up Young Generation FA (U13) and Danso FA (U15) were awarded silver medals and consolation prizes.
Individual accolades highlighted standout performances. For Better Tomorrow FA, captain Ensa Senghore was named Best Player of the U13 Tournament, praised for his exceptional leadership, skill, and influence throughout the competition. Modou Lamin Marong emerged as the Leading Goal Scorer, his sharp finishing and relentless hunger proving pivotal to the team’s success. Adding further shine, Siaka Suwareh received the prestigious Golden Boy Award for his outstanding talent, discipline, and maturity on the pitch—earning high praise as a rare gem with immense potential to represent The Gambia at the national level.
The academy’s triumph comes on the heels of their exciting partnership with Women in Liberation and Leadership (WILL), a leading Gambian organization dedicated to combating sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). WILL sponsors the club’s new home and away kits for the 2026 season, with their logo emblazoned proudly on the front. This collaboration transforms young players into ambassadors of positive change, using football to promote discipline, leadership, character development, and to keep youth away from negative influences.
Speakers at the event, including Coach Yahya Manneh, commended the KMRFAA Executive Committee, the Regional Football body, and the Gambia Football Federation (GFF) for their vision and support of grassroots initiatives. They reminded the young athletes that while talent is vital, hard work, discipline, and resilience are essential for long-term success as future professionals and national stars.
This coronation not only celebrated achievements but also ignited dreams across the region.
Better Tomorrow FA’s victory underscores the power of community-driven football in building a brighter future for Gambian youth.
