Barrolle squad in Grand Gedeh County

By Julu M. Johnson, Jr.


Liberian premier league champions Mighty Barrolle brought back memories of former Liberian President, Dr. Samuel Kanyon Doe as Liberians observed the 60th birth anniversary of the first indigenous leader of Africa’s oldest independent nation on Thursday, May 6, 2010 in Zwedru.

Grand Gedeh County is the birthplace of Dr. Doe, was born on May 6, 1950 in the town of Tuzon and killed by rebel forces on September 9, 1990 in Monrovia.

Despite a difficult journey, which was characterized by vehicle breakdowns, the Rollers still made it on time to form part of the celebration of their former chief patron and agile fan. A mammoth crowd welcomed the team as dozens of motorcycles and residents accompanied the Rollers’ convoy on a guided tour of the city of Zwedru. The arrival of Mighty Barrolle reminded many Liberians witnessing the event about the huge desire Dr. Doe had for sports while he was President. Some observers who could not hold their tears wept as the Barrolle convoy went past them.

Following few hours of rest, the Rollers joined the 60th birthday celebration of the former President at the Zwedru mini stadium, now under the authority of the United Nations Chinese peacekeepers. Players and officials of Barrolle carried placards that read: “Dr. Samuel Kanyon Doe, Mighty Barrolle Miss You. Rest In Peace.” As for the locals, they printed hundreds of souvenir t-shirts to show their love for the former President.

The day was climaxed by series of games as female old-timers got involved in a kickball encounter that saw Women for Reconciliation and Development (WORD) whipping Zwedru United Sisters 14-13 innings. In game two, Zoe Atina FC and God’s Power played to a 1-1 draw.

The big match of the day produced a 1-0 victory for Mighty Barrolle at the expense of Grand Gedeh All Stars. The goal came in the first half through Peter Diggs.

The activities were organized by the Grand Gedeh Sub-Association of the Liberia Football Association (LFA) and well attended by county officials, relief workers, UNMIL soldiers, students and invited guests.

The celebration would continue throughout the rest of the week with Mighty Barrolle involving in more matches against Brazilian Stars, Gbao-Ar-Geewea, Grand Gdeh County team and Zwedru Multilateral High School.